A recent study suggests that individuals who stop using new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while obese individuals often shed a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People buying such treatments should be informed of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a return to original mass within about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The research, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of these new drugs with other pills.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting generally have a more gradual creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Experts believe the mode of action of the injections accounts for the amplified regain.
The injections copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, given the likelihood of relapse, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "emphasize the long-term nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
People who have come off the medication explain a sudden return of hunger.
"It was like a trigger flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
The struggle is compounded if users have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Use is more common among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while these medications are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing lifestyle changes.
