A recent study reveals that patients who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover lost weight far faster than those who halt traditional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese individuals often shed a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People using these drugs should be cognizant of the risk of rapid weight regain when the therapy ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a reversion to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise typically have a slower creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy is often ongoing.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have come off the jabs describe a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger activating and you become extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not established permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Interest
Figures suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts caution that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits hinges on ongoing behavioural changes.
