New research indicates that patients who stop using popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who end conventional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a leading medical journal shows that while overweight people frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals using these treatments must be cognizant of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a return to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically see a slower weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mechanism of the injections explains the amplified weight return.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this medication leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities advise the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "underscore the chronic nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
Users who have discontinued the jabs explain a intense resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced something that goes on and you're instantly extremely hungry," said an individual.
This difficulty is worsened if users have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Interest
Figures show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Use is greater among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians stress that while these medications are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and long-term success likely depends on combined behavioural management.
