New research reveals that patients who come off popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a leading health publication shows that while obese people often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users using these drugs should be aware of the danger of quick weight regain when the medication concludes," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a return to original mass within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team point out that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually have a less rapid creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Rapid Rebound
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the jabs explains the heightened rebound.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities advise the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, given the likelihood of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the persistent character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
People who have discontinued the medication describe a sudden return of cravings.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and you become ravenous," described an individual.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Use is greater among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while these medications are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success relies on ongoing lifestyle changes.
