Fresh analysis reveals that people who come off popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a major medical journal points out that while overweight individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying such medications must be aware of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to pre-treatment mass within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually see a less rapid weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the way of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment is often life-long.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "highlight the chronic character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
Users who have discontinued the medication explain a intense return of appetite.
"It felt as if something that goes on and you become extremely hungry," said a patient.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates suggest that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Use is greater among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while these medications are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and long-term success likely depends on combined lifestyle management.
