Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who discontinue new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass far faster than those who halt traditional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while obese individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals using such medications need to be cognizant of the risk of quick weight regain when the treatment is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a reversion to original weight in about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through dieting usually see a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Doctors believe the mode of action of the jabs accounts for the accelerated weight return.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often life-long.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "emphasize the chronic nature of obesity," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have stopped the medication explain a intense return of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch activating and you're instantly ravenous," recalled a patient.
The struggle is worsened if users have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Use
Survey data indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while these medications are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss hinges on combined lifestyle management.
