Fresh analysis suggests that people who stop using popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight far faster than those who end traditional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a major health publication points out that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Users purchasing these treatments need to be informed of the danger of quick weight regain when the therapy concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to pre-treatment mass in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting typically experience a more gradual creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists believe the mode of action of the injections explains the accelerated rebound.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than normal may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, given the high risk of weight regain, the treatment is often ongoing.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
People who have discontinued the medication describe a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger activating and you become extremely hungry," described an individual.
The struggle is worsened if users have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Use
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts emphasize that while these medications are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and lasting health benefits hinges on integrated lifestyle changes.
