Fresh analysis suggests that individuals who discontinue blockbuster weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a leading medical journal points out that while obese people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals purchasing such medications need to be aware of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a reversion to starting weight in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Therapies
The research, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers note that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually experience a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Experts suggest the mechanism of the jabs explains the heightened rebound.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "underscore the long-term character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
People who have discontinued the jabs describe a intense resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a switch flipping and you become extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not established lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Interest
Survey data suggest that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success relies on ongoing lifestyle changes.
