Fresh analysis indicates that individuals who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who halt traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a major health publication demonstrates that while obese people often shed a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Users purchasing these medications must be informed of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to original weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise generally see a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Doctors believe the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement means appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Condition?
The NHS suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, given the high risk of relapse, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Experiences
Users who have come off the jabs explain a powerful return of hunger.
"I experienced something activating and you become starving," described an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Use
Survey data suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Use is more common among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers caution that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and lasting health benefits likely depends on combined behavioural support.
