Fresh analysis indicates that people who stop using popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a major medical journal shows that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People purchasing these medications should be cognizant of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment mass in about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that people who lose weight through diet and exercise typically have a more gradual weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Experts suggest the way of the injections is key to understanding the amplified rebound.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating far more likely."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "underscore the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Testimonies
Users who have discontinued the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It was like something that goes on and you're instantly starving," recalled one woman.
The struggle is worsened if individuals have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Recent estimates show that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Use is higher among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success relies on integrated behavioural changes.
