New research indicates that patients who come off popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain reduced body mass far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users buying such drugs need to be aware of the danger of rapid weight regain when the treatment ends," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a return to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which examined dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
The team note that people who lose weight through diet and exercise typically have a less rapid weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Experts believe the way of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
The injections copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication means hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs report a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if something flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural management.
