Fresh analysis suggests that individuals who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt traditional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a major medical journal points out that while obese individuals can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People purchasing such treatments must be informed of the risk of rapid weight regain when the medication is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to original mass in about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team point out that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually see a more gradual creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the heightened regain.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the medication report a sudden return of appetite.
"It was like a switch that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled one woman.
This challenge is worsened if patients have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Use
Recent estimates suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among females than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians caution that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and lasting health benefits hinges on integrated lifestyle changes.
