A recent study suggests that individuals who come off popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who halt conventional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a leading medical journal shows that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People using these treatments should be informed of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a return to pre-treatment mass within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The study, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists point out that individuals who shed pounds through dieting generally have a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the way of the jabs accounts for the heightened rebound.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Condition?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "underscore the persistent character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
Users who have stopped the medication explain a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and you become extremely hungry," described one woman.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Interest
Figures indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Use is higher among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts emphasize that while the jabs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing lifestyle support.
