A recent study reveals that people who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese people frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying these treatments must be cognizant of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually see a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Experts suggest the way of the injections is key to understanding the heightened regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement means appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "highlight the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have come off the jabs explain a intense resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a switch flipping and I was suddenly starving," described a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among females than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians caution that while these medications are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success likely depends on integrated behavioural changes.
