A recent study suggests that patients who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a major health publication shows that while obese people often shed about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People purchasing these treatments should be informed of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a reversion to starting mass in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The research, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists emphasize that people who lose weight through diet and exercise generally see a less rapid creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the amplified weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement means hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "highlight the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
People who have come off the jabs report a sudden return of appetite.
"I experienced a switch that goes on and you become starving," said a patient.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Use
Survey data suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing lifestyle changes.
