New research reveals that individuals who come off new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal points out that while obese people often shed a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals buying these medications must be aware of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a reversion to original weight within about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically experience a slower weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Doctors propose the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, given the likelihood of relapse, the therapy is often life-long.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "underscore the chronic character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
Individuals who have come off the medication explain a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced something flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," said an individual.
This challenge is compounded if users have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates show that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Use is more common among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts emphasize that while these medications are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing lifestyle management.
