Fresh analysis suggests that people who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass far faster than those who end traditional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a leading medical journal shows that while obese individuals can lose a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users purchasing such treatments need to be aware of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the medication ends," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a return to starting weight within about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Doctors believe the mode of action of the jabs explains the amplified rebound.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the likelihood of relapse, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "highlight the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the medication describe a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if something that goes on and you become extremely hungry," described a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians caution that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits hinges on combined behavioural changes.
