New research suggests that people who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who stop traditional lifestyle regimens.
Published data in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese individuals often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals buying such drugs need to be informed of the potential of rapid weight regain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to starting weight within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually experience a slower creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the way of the injections accounts for the amplified weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
The NHS suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "highlight the chronic character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have stopped the jabs report a intense resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and you become ravenous," recalled an individual.
The struggle is worsened if users have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers stress that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and long-term success relies on integrated behavioural changes.
