Fresh analysis suggests that patients who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a major health publication shows that while overweight individuals often shed about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users purchasing such drugs must be informed of the danger of quick weight regain when the treatment is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
Scientists note that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually see a more gradual creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Doctors believe the mode of action of the jabs accounts for the amplified regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than normal may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication means hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "emphasize the long-term character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
People who have stopped the medication explain a intense return of cravings.
"I experienced a switch that goes on and I was suddenly starving," described one woman.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Survey data show that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts caution that while the jabs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and long-term success likely depends on combined lifestyle changes.
