Fresh analysis reveals that people who stop using new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop conventional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals can lose about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users using such drugs must be informed of the potential of quick weight regain when the medication is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a reversion to pre-treatment mass within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The analysis, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team note that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically experience a slower creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Experts suggest the mechanism of the injections accounts for the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this medication means appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "emphasize the long-term character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the medication describe a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled one woman.
This difficulty is worsened if users have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Figures show that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs 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 solution and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing lifestyle changes.
