Fresh analysis suggests that people who stop using popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight far faster than those who end conventional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a leading health publication points out that while obese individuals can lose a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals buying these treatments should be cognizant of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The study, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
Scientists point out that people who lose weight through diet and exercise generally experience a slower creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Doctors propose the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS recommend the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "highlight the long-term character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the medication explain a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced a switch flipping and you become ravenous," said a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Use
Figures indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Use is more common among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers caution that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss hinges on combined lifestyle changes.
