A recent study indicates that individuals who discontinue blockbuster slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal shows that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People purchasing these drugs need to be aware of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a return to original mass in about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
The team point out that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually see a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Experts believe the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated rebound.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could lessen 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 far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the chronic nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have come off the jabs report a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a switch activating and you're instantly starving," recalled an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Interest
Survey data indicate that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Use is greater among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts stress that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing lifestyle management.
