A recent study suggests that people who stop using popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover lost weight much more quickly than those who stop conventional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users using these medications need to be cognizant of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a return to original weight in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The research, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers point out that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally see a more gradual creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Experts suggest the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "highlight the chronic character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Users who have stopped the medication explain a intense resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger activating and you're instantly starving," described an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not established permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while these medications are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success hinges on ongoing lifestyle support.
