Fresh analysis indicates that people who come off popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain reduced body mass far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal points out that while overweight individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People using such treatments must be informed of the danger of rapid weight regain when the therapy ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
Researchers note that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Doctors believe the way of the jabs explains the amplified weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS suggest the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the medication explain a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger activating and you become extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if users have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Survey data suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians caution that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss hinges on combined lifestyle changes.
