A recent study reveals that individuals who discontinue blockbuster slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain reduced body mass far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese people often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People purchasing these medications should be aware of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a reversion to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Treatments
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who lose weight through dieting typically see a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Experts propose the mode of action of the injections explains the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement means appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the chronic nature of obesity," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the medication explain a sudden return of cravings.
"It was like a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled one woman.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Figures suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers stress that while these medications are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success relies on ongoing behavioural management.
