A recent study reveals that people who come off new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who end conventional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a major health publication shows that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People buying such medications should be aware of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to original weight within about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally have a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Doctors suggest the way of the drugs accounts for the amplified regain.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "underscore the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
People who have stopped the medication describe a powerful return of appetite.
"It was like a trigger flipping and you become extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is compounded if users have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Use is higher among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts emphasize that while these medications are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and lasting health benefits hinges on combined behavioural management.
