A recent study suggests that patients who come off new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who end conventional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People using these medications must be informed of the risk of quick weight regain when the therapy ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment mass within about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The study, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with other pills.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through dieting generally have a slower weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the way of the jabs accounts for the accelerated regain.
The injections copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "highlight the long-term character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs explain a intense return of appetite.
"It was like a trigger activating and I was suddenly starving," said a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Figures indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Use is more common among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, experts emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and lasting health benefits relies on combined behavioural support.
