Fresh analysis suggests that individuals who stop using new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight far faster than those who halt conventional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a major medical journal points out that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People using these drugs must be aware of the risk of rapid weight regain when the therapy concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to original mass in about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists note that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually have a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often life-long.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "highlight the long-term nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
People who have come off the medication describe a powerful return of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and you're instantly starving," described one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not established lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Use is higher among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, experts caution that while these medications are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined behavioural changes.
