A recent study indicates that people who come off new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a leading medical journal points out that while obese individuals often shed about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals using such drugs need to be cognizant of the danger of quick weight regain when the therapy is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to original mass within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically see a slower creep back—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Nutrition scientists believe the way of the jabs accounts for the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "highlight the chronic nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
People who have discontinued the medication explain a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and I was suddenly starving," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Use is greater among females than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss hinges on combined behavioural changes.
