Fresh analysis suggests that patients who stop using new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover shed pounds far faster than those who halt traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a leading health publication demonstrates that while overweight people frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People buying such drugs need to be informed of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a reversion to original weight in about 18 months.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers point out that people who shed pounds through dieting generally see a less rapid weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Doctors believe the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the amplified regain.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "emphasize the long-term character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Users who have stopped the jabs explain a powerful return of hunger.
"It felt as if something flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and lasting health benefits relies on ongoing behavioural management.
