Fresh analysis indicates that individuals who come off new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a leading medical journal points out that while obese people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People buying these drugs should be cognizant of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a return to pre-treatment mass in about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
Scientists point out that people who lose weight through diet and exercise usually have a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Experts propose the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the amplified weight return.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS advise the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, given the high risk of relapse, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "underscore the chronic nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have come off the jabs explain a powerful return of cravings.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and I was suddenly starving," said an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Figures show that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while these medications are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and lasting health benefits likely depends on combined behavioural support.
