A recent study indicates that patients who come off popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who end conventional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while obese people can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users buying such treatments must be aware of the potential of rapid weight regain when the medication concludes," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a reversion to original mass within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually have a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists believe the way of the jabs accounts for the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal may cause the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities advise the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "underscore the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It was like something that goes on and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if users have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Figures show that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing lifestyle changes.
