New research indicates that individuals who stop using popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal points out that while obese people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying these medications should be informed of the risk of fast weight regain when the therapy is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a return to starting mass in about 18 months.
Comparing Therapies
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
The team point out that people who lose weight through dieting typically see a slower weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Doctors propose the way of the injections explains the amplified weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy is often life-long.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "highlight the long-term nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
People who have come off the medication report a powerful return of hunger.
"It was like a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly starving," recalled a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians stress that while these medications are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits hinges on combined behavioural management.
