A recent study indicates that patients who come off popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who end conventional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a major health publication shows that while overweight individuals often shed about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users using these drugs should be aware of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a return to pre-treatment mass in about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting typically experience a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Doctors believe the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication means hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Condition?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "emphasize the long-term nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Users who have discontinued the medication explain a intense return of hunger.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and I was suddenly starving," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Interest
Survey data suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss hinges on combined behavioural support.
