Fresh analysis suggests that people who stop using popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover shed pounds far faster than those who stop conventional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a leading health publication demonstrates that while obese individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People purchasing such treatments need to be cognizant of the risk of quick weight regain when the therapy is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a reversion to original weight in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Therapies
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists point out that people who lose weight through diet and exercise generally have a more gradual weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Doctors believe the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened regain.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the chronic character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
People who have come off the medication describe a intense resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if something activating and I was suddenly ravenous," described a patient.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is greater among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing lifestyle management.
