New research suggests that people who come off new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop conventional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a major medical journal shows that while overweight individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People buying such drugs must be cognizant of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a reversion to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of these new drugs with older methods.
The team point out that individuals who shed pounds through dieting usually have a less rapid weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also lessen sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Condition?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
People who have stopped the medication describe a powerful return of cravings.
"I experienced a switch flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said a patient.
The struggle is worsened if individuals have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Use
Survey data indicate that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts stress that while these medications are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and lasting health benefits relies on integrated behavioural management.
