Fresh analysis suggests that patients who come off new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end conventional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while obese people often shed about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals using such drugs should be aware of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The analysis, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through dieting generally have a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Doctors propose the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened regain.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication means hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS advise the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
Users who have stopped the jabs explain a intense return of appetite.
"I experienced something flipping and you become starving," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while these medications are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and long-term success hinges on combined lifestyle changes.
