Fresh analysis suggests that individuals who come off new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt traditional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a major health publication demonstrates that while obese people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users purchasing these drugs must be aware of the danger of rapid weight regain when the therapy concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a return to starting mass in about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The research, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually see a less rapid weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Doctors propose the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, given the likelihood of relapse, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "highlight the persistent character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs report a powerful return of hunger.
"It felt as if something that goes on and you become starving," recalled a patient.
This challenge is compounded if users have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and lasting health benefits hinges on combined lifestyle management.
