Fresh analysis suggests that individuals who stop using new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who end conventional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a leading medical journal points out that while obese individuals often shed substantial amounts 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 informed of the danger of quick weight regain when the therapy concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a return to original weight in about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
The team emphasize that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally see a slower creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Doctors propose the mode of action of the jabs accounts for the amplified weight return.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities advise the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Testimonies
People who have stopped the jabs explain a sudden return of cravings.
"It was like a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly extremely hungry," described a patient.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Survey data show that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts stress that while the jabs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success hinges on combined lifestyle management.
