A recent study indicates that patients who stop using popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds far faster than those who end traditional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal points out that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People using such medications need to be aware of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a return to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The analysis, which examined 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through dieting usually experience a more gradual creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Doctors propose the mode of action of the jabs explains the heightened weight return.
These medications copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than normal might result in the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "emphasize the long-term character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
Users who have stopped the jabs explain a powerful return of hunger.
"I experienced a switch activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said a patient.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while these medications are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing lifestyle changes.
