Fresh analysis reveals that patients who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a leading health publication shows that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals purchasing such drugs need to be cognizant of the risk of fast weight regain when the medication ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to pre-treatment mass in about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists point out that individuals who shed pounds through dieting generally have a more gradual creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mechanism of the injections explains the heightened weight return.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment is often long-term.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "highlight the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
People who have come off the medication describe a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and you become extremely hungry," described a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Use is higher among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and lasting health benefits relies on integrated behavioural changes.
