New research indicates that people who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain reduced body mass far faster than those who end traditional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal points out that while obese individuals often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People purchasing these drugs must be cognizant of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a return to original mass within about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The analysis, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise usually have a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Doctors believe the mode of action of the injections accounts for the amplified rebound.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than normal might result in the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "underscore the persistent character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have come off the medication explain a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a trigger that goes on and you're instantly ravenous," said an individual.
This challenge is worsened if users have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Use
Recent estimates suggest that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts caution that while the jabs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and long-term success likely depends on ongoing lifestyle management.
