A recent study reveals that people who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals buying such drugs need to be informed of the potential of rapid weight regain when the treatment ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to original mass in about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
The team point out that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally see a more gradual creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Experts suggest the mode of action of the drugs explains the accelerated rebound.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this medication leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities recommend the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "underscore the persistent nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Accounts
Users who have come off the jabs explain a intense resurgence of hunger.
"It was like something activating and you're instantly starving," recalled an individual.
The struggle is worsened if individuals have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Significant Use
Survey data show that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing behavioural changes.
