New research reveals that patients who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who end traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a leading health publication shows that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals using these drugs should be cognizant of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a return to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers note that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise typically see a slower weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Doctors believe the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the amplified weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment is often life-long.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "underscore the chronic character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
People who have stopped the medication explain a sudden return of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and you become starving," recalled an individual.
The struggle is compounded if users have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is higher among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated lifestyle changes.
