Fresh analysis indicates that individuals who stop using popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass far faster than those who halt conventional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while obese individuals can lose a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People purchasing such drugs should be informed of the risk of fast weight regain when the medication ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to pre-treatment mass within about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Scientists emphasize that people who shed pounds through dieting typically see a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the mode of action of the injections accounts for the heightened rebound.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "underscore the chronic nature of obesity," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Experiences
Users who have stopped the medication report a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It was like a trigger that goes on and you become starving," recalled an individual.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Use
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians caution that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and long-term success relies on ongoing lifestyle changes.
