Fresh analysis suggests that patients who come off new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a major health publication shows that while overweight individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users buying these drugs should be aware of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a reversion to starting weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists point out that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually have a slower weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Doctors suggest the way of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities suggest the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, given the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "emphasize the chronic nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have come off the medication report a powerful return of appetite.
"I experienced a switch that goes on and you're instantly ravenous," described an individual.
The struggle is compounded if users have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers stress that while these medications are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits relies on ongoing lifestyle support.
