Fresh analysis indicates that patients who come off new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight individuals can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals buying these medications should be aware of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a return to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers note that individuals who shed pounds through dieting generally see a less rapid creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Experts suggest the way of the drugs explains the heightened rebound.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this medication means hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, given the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "emphasize the chronic nature of obesity," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Users who have come off the jabs explain a powerful return of appetite.
"It was like something that goes on and you become starving," said an individual.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Recent estimates indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and lasting health benefits relies on integrated lifestyle support.
