Fresh analysis indicates that patients who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal points out that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals using these drugs must be informed of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to pre-treatment mass in about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise usually experience a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
The injections copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "highlight the persistent nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Users who have come off the medication report a intense return of cravings.
"I experienced something flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Interest
Survey data indicate that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians caution that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success relies on integrated lifestyle management.
