New research indicates that individuals who come off new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who stop conventional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a major health publication points out that while overweight individuals often shed a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users buying these drugs must be cognizant of the danger of quick weight regain when the medication is stopped," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a reversion to original mass in about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists point out that people who lose weight through dieting typically experience a less rapid weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the way of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication means hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment is often life-long.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the medication explain a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It was like a switch flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," described an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if patients have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Survey data suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Use is greater among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts caution that while these medications are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss relies on combined lifestyle changes.
