New research indicates that individuals who stop using new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a major health publication demonstrates that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Users using these medications need to be aware of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to starting mass in about 18 months.
Analyzing Approaches
The research, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team point out that people who shed pounds through dieting usually see a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the amplified regain.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than normal may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "emphasize the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the jabs describe a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and you're instantly extremely hungry," said an individual.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and lasting health benefits relies on ongoing lifestyle management.
