New research suggests that people who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass far faster than those who end conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a leading medical journal points out that while obese individuals can lose a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users purchasing such medications must be cognizant of the risk of rapid weight regain when the treatment ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a return to starting mass within about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The study, which examined dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that people who shed pounds through dieting usually have a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the way of the drugs accounts for the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this medication leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities recommend the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "emphasize the chronic character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Accounts
People who have come off the jabs report a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"It was like something activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if patients have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Figures indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success hinges on combined behavioural management.
