Fresh analysis suggests that individuals who stop using popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover shed pounds far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal points out that while overweight people frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users using such treatments need to be cognizant of the potential of quick weight regain when the treatment concludes," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a reversion to starting weight within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The research, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally have a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Experts suggest the mode of action of the injections explains the heightened regain.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
Health authorities advise the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "emphasize the chronic character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
People who have stopped the medication report a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if something flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts caution that while these medications are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits hinges on ongoing lifestyle support.
