Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who come off new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds far faster than those who halt traditional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese people often shed about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying such treatments should be aware of the risk of fast weight regain when the medication is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a reversion to starting mass in about 18 months.
Comparing Therapies
The study, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through dieting typically experience a more gradual creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Experts propose the mechanism of the drugs explains the accelerated regain.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement means hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
Health authorities suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, due to the high risk of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "emphasize the chronic nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs explain a sudden return of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and you become starving," said one woman.
This difficulty is worsened if users have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Survey data show that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while these medications are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and long-term success likely depends on ongoing behavioural changes.
