A recent study reveals that individuals who come off new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a major medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals purchasing such drugs must be cognizant of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the medication ends," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a return to starting weight in about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The research, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a less rapid creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Doctors believe the way of the injections is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
People who have stopped the medication explain a sudden return of cravings.
"I experienced something flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," said an individual.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Widespread Use
Figures suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers caution that while the jabs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and lasting health benefits relies on combined lifestyle support.
