New research reveals that people who stop using popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while overweight individuals often shed about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users purchasing such drugs should be informed of the potential of quick weight regain when the medication ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a reversion to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Scientists point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally have a slower creep back—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Experts suggest the way of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this medication results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often ongoing.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "emphasize the chronic nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs describe a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and you become starving," said an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Figures indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, experts stress that while the jabs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and lasting health benefits hinges on combined lifestyle support.
