Fresh analysis suggests that individuals who stop using popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while obese people frequently drop substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People buying these treatments need to be informed of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a reversion to original weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Scientists point out that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally have a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists believe the mechanism of the injections explains the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often life-long.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "highlight the persistent nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have discontinued the jabs report a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"It was like something that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," described one woman.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Survey data show that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts stress that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss relies on integrated lifestyle management.
