A recent study reveals that people who stop using popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight far faster than those who end conventional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while overweight individuals often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals using these drugs need to be cognizant of the danger of rapid weight regain when the medication is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a return to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
The team point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally have a less rapid weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Doctors propose the mechanism of the injections explains the accelerated regain.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities advise the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "highlight the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Testimonies
People who have come off the jabs report a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It was like something flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if patients have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Figures suggest that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is more common among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while these medications are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss hinges on integrated lifestyle support.
