A recent study suggests that people who stop using popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end conventional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a major health publication points out that while overweight individuals often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People buying these medications must be aware of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to original weight in about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically have a less rapid creep back—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mode of action of the injections explains the amplified rebound.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "underscore the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Experiences
People who have stopped the jabs explain a powerful return of hunger.
"It felt as if a switch activating and you're instantly starving," recalled one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Survey data suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Use is higher among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success likely depends on combined behavioural changes.
