Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who end conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a leading medical journal points out that while obese people can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People using such drugs must be aware of the risk of quick weight regain when the treatment ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to starting weight in about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The research, which reviewed dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that people who lose weight through diet and exercise generally experience a more gradual creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the drugs explains the heightened rebound.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities recommend the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "emphasize the chronic character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
People who have discontinued the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"It was like something activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Figures suggest that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while these medications are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and long-term success hinges on ongoing behavioural support.
