New research indicates that individuals who discontinue new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a prominent health publication points out that while obese individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People using such medications need to be aware of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a return to original mass within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The research, which reviewed dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
The team point out that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Experts believe the way of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened regain.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment is often long-term.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "underscore the persistent nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
People who have come off the medication report a intense return of hunger.
"It was like something that goes on and you become ravenous," recalled one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not established permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates show that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while these medications are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss relies on integrated behavioural changes.
