Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who end traditional lifestyle regimens.
Published data in a prominent medical journal points out that while obese people frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals buying these drugs must be informed of the risk of rapid weight regain when the medication concludes," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a reversion to starting weight within about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The analysis, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Scientists point out that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Experts believe the way of the injections accounts for the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS advise the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "underscore the long-term character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Testimonies
Users who have discontinued the jabs report a sudden return of cravings.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if users have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Recent estimates show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is more common among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians caution that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and lasting health benefits relies on ongoing behavioural changes.
