Fresh analysis indicates that people who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a major medical journal shows that while obese individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users using such drugs need to be informed of the risk of rapid weight regain when the therapy concludes," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a return to original mass within about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise typically have a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Experts propose the mode of action of the injections explains the heightened rebound.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "emphasize the long-term character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
Users who have stopped the jabs explain a sudden return of cravings.
"It was like something activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said a patient.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while these medications are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and lasting health benefits hinges on integrated lifestyle changes.
