New research reveals that patients who stop using new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a major medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals using such drugs need to be cognizant of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with older methods.
The team note that people who lose weight through dieting generally experience a less rapid creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the jabs explains the accelerated regain.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS recommend the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, given the high risk of weight regain, the therapy is often long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs report a intense resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced a switch activating and you become starving," said one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Interest
Figures indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Use is higher among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians caution that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and lasting health benefits hinges on combined behavioural changes.
