Fresh analysis suggests that people who come off popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who end conventional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a leading health publication shows that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users buying these treatments should be informed of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a return to pre-treatment weight within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Treatments
The analysis, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually have a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the jabs explains the amplified weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this medication means appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the long-term nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
People who have discontinued the medication report a sudden return of appetite.
"It was like a switch activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not established permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Figures suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among females than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians caution that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined behavioural support.
