Fresh analysis suggests that patients who stop using new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a major medical journal shows that while overweight individuals often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People purchasing these medications need to be informed of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a return to original mass within about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
Researchers note that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically have a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Experts propose the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the heightened regain.
The injections copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy is often ongoing.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "underscore the long-term character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have come off the jabs describe a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced something flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," described a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Interest
Survey data show that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians stress that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and long-term success hinges on ongoing behavioural changes.
