Fresh analysis indicates that individuals who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds far faster than those who stop conventional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a major medical journal shows that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users using these drugs should be cognizant of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a return to pre-treatment mass in about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Scientists note that people who lose weight through diet and exercise generally experience a more gradual creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Experts propose the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated rebound.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Users who have stopped the medication explain a intense return of appetite.
"I experienced a switch activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," described a patient.
This challenge is compounded if users have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts emphasize that while the jabs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success hinges on combined lifestyle support.
