New research indicates that people who stop using popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals buying these treatments need to be cognizant of the potential of fast weight regain when the medication is stopped," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with other pills.
The team note that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally see a more gradual creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Experts suggest the mechanism of the drugs explains the amplified regain.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than normal may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS suggest the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, given the likelihood of relapse, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the long-term character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Testimonies
People who have stopped the medication report a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"It was like a trigger activating and I was suddenly starving," said a patient.
The struggle is worsened if individuals have not established permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Use is more common among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss hinges on combined lifestyle management.
