New research indicates that individuals who stop using new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover shed pounds much more quickly than those who end conventional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a leading medical journal shows that while overweight people can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals using such medications must be informed of the potential of fast weight regain when the medication is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The research, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Researchers note that people who shed pounds through dieting typically see a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the way of the injections explains the amplified rebound.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal might result in the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this medication results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "underscore the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a switch activating and I was suddenly starving," described an individual.
The struggle is compounded if patients have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Survey data indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians stress that while the jabs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss hinges on combined behavioural support.
