New research suggests that patients who discontinue new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover reduced body mass far faster than those who end conventional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a leading medical journal points out that while obese individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Users using such medications must be cognizant of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The analysis, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with other pills.
Scientists point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting typically experience a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Experts believe the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the amplified regain.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities recommend the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy is often life-long.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
People who have come off the medication describe a intense return of cravings.
"I experienced something flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," said a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if patients have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Survey data show that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is more common among females than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians caution that while the jabs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing behavioural support.
