New research reveals that people who come off new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who end conventional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while overweight people often shed a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users purchasing these medications must be informed of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a reversion to original mass in about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The analysis, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually see a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the way of the jabs explains the heightened weight return.
The injections copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement means hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, given the high risk of weight regain, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "highlight the long-term nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
Users who have discontinued the jabs describe a intense resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if something flipping and you're instantly ravenous," said an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if patients have not established lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Figures show that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts emphasize that while these medications are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and lasting health benefits relies on ongoing behavioural management.
