A recent study indicates that people who stop using new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt traditional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a major medical journal points out that while obese individuals often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People purchasing such drugs must be aware of the risk of fast weight regain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a reversion to original weight in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The research, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Scientists note that individuals who shed pounds through dieting generally have a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Experts propose the way of the drugs is key to understanding the amplified weight return.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication means appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS recommend the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "highlight the chronic character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the medication describe a powerful return of cravings.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and you're instantly starving," said an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if users have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while these medications are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and lasting health benefits hinges on ongoing behavioural support.
