Fresh analysis reveals that people who come off popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying such medications need to be informed of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a reversion to original mass within about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of these new drugs with older methods.
The team point out that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a less rapid creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Doctors suggest the way of the injections is key to understanding the heightened regain.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this medication means appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
The NHS recommend the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "emphasize the long-term nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Accounts
Users who have come off the jabs explain a sudden return of hunger.
"It was like a switch activating and you become ravenous," described one woman.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not established lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Growing Interest
Survey data indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Use is greater among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and lasting health benefits hinges on ongoing lifestyle support.
