A recent study indicates that patients who stop using new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a major health publication points out that while overweight individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People purchasing these medications should be informed of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a return to original weight within about 18 months.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers note that people who shed pounds through dieting typically have a less rapid creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Doctors suggest the way of the jabs accounts for the accelerated rebound.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels far above than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment is often life-long.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the chronic character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Users who have stopped the medication explain a sudden return of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and you become ravenous," said a patient.
This difficulty is compounded if users have not established lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Interest
Figures indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers stress that while these medications are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss relies on combined lifestyle changes.
