A recent study reveals that patients who discontinue new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal points out that while obese people frequently drop substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users buying such treatments must be aware of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a return to original weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
The team note that people who shed pounds through dieting generally experience a less rapid creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the injections explains the heightened weight return.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities recommend the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "highlight the chronic character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the jabs report a intense resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced something flipping and I was suddenly starving," recalled one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not established permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing lifestyle support.
