A recent study indicates that patients who discontinue new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a major health publication shows that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals buying these medications need to be informed of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a reversion to original mass in about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers note that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally have a slower creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Experts propose the way of the injections accounts for the accelerated regain.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication means appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
The NHS suggest the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "highlight the long-term nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Accounts
People who have stopped the medication report a intense resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a trigger activating and you become ravenous," recalled a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not established permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Figures indicate that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Use is higher among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and long-term success relies on integrated behavioural management.
