A recent study indicates that individuals who stop using new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who halt conventional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a major health publication points out that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People using these treatments should be informed of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a reversion to original mass in about 18 months.
Analyzing Approaches
The analysis, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
Researchers point out that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally see a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Nutrition scientists believe the way of the drugs explains the accelerated weight return.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than normal may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
The NHS recommend the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "emphasize the chronic character of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
Individuals who have come off the jabs describe a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a switch activating and you become extremely hungry," described one woman.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Survey data suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians stress that while the jabs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on combined behavioural support.
