Fresh analysis reveals that people who discontinue new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a leading health publication shows that while overweight individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals using these treatments should be aware of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a return to pre-treatment mass within about 18 months.
Analyzing Approaches
The analysis, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically see a less rapid creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Experts propose the mechanism of the injections accounts for the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, given the likelihood of relapse, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "highlight the long-term character of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the medication report a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly starving," described an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Survey data suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Use is higher among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and lasting health benefits relies on ongoing lifestyle support.
