Fresh analysis suggests that patients who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds far faster than those who halt conventional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a leading health publication shows that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People purchasing such treatments should be cognizant of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the medication ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to starting weight within about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers point out that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually see a slower weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Experts propose the way of the injections is key to understanding the amplified rebound.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, given the high risk of relapse, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "emphasize the long-term nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs report a intense return of appetite.
"It was like something activating and you become ravenous," described a patient.
The struggle is worsened if users have not established lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Figures indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers caution that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and long-term success likely depends on ongoing behavioural support.
