New research suggests that patients who come off popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover lost weight far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise 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 returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users using such treatments need to be aware of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to starting weight in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally experience a slower creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Understanding the Rapid Rebound
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Issue?
The NHS suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "highlight the long-term character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs describe a sudden return of hunger.
"It felt as if a switch activating and you're instantly ravenous," described a patient.
This challenge is worsened if patients have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Survey data show that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing behavioural changes.
