Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who come off new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight far faster than those who halt conventional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal points out that while obese people frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users buying these drugs must be informed of the potential of rapid weight regain when the medication ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a reversion to starting mass in about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
The team note that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise typically have a less rapid creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Doctors propose the mechanism of the jabs explains the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "underscore the chronic character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have come off the jabs describe a sudden return of hunger.
"It was like a switch that goes on and you're instantly extremely hungry," described an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Use is more common among females than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers caution that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing lifestyle changes.
