New research reveals that patients who stop using popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight far faster than those who end traditional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a prominent health publication shows that while overweight individuals can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals purchasing such medications need to be informed of the potential of rapid weight regain when the therapy is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a return to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The research, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a less rapid creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the injections accounts for the accelerated rebound.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "underscore the long-term nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
Users who have discontinued the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and you're instantly starving," described an individual.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not established lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and long-term success likely depends on ongoing lifestyle changes.
