Fresh analysis indicates that people who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a prominent health publication shows that while obese people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals buying such drugs need to be informed of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to original weight in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The analysis, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically see a slower weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Understanding the Rapid Rebound
Experts believe the mechanism of the drugs explains the accelerated regain.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than normal may cause the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the therapy is often ongoing.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Experiences
Users who have discontinued the jabs explain a intense return of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch activating and I was suddenly ravenous," said an individual.
The struggle is compounded if patients have not established permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates show that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated lifestyle changes.
