A recent study indicates that people who discontinue new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover shed pounds far faster than those who halt traditional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People buying these treatments should be cognizant of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a reversion to original mass in about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers note that individuals who shed pounds through dieting usually experience a slower weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the way of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication means appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy is often ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "underscore the long-term nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs explain a intense return of hunger.
"It was like a trigger activating and you become ravenous," described a patient.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Use is higher among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success relies on ongoing behavioural changes.
