A recent study indicates that patients who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end conventional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a major medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals using these medications need to be cognizant of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a return to pre-treatment weight within about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The analysis, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team note that people who shed pounds through dieting typically see a less rapid weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Experts believe the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the amplified weight return.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "underscore the long-term character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Accounts
People who have stopped the jabs describe a intense resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," described a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Figures suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while the jabs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and lasting health benefits relies on integrated behavioural changes.
