New research reveals that individuals who come off popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a leading health publication points out that while overweight individuals often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals using such medications should be informed of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a reversion to pre-treatment mass within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Therapies
The research, which examined 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically have a more gradual weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the injections explains the accelerated rebound.
The injections copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Condition?
The NHS recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "highlight the persistent character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Experiences
Users who have discontinued the medication report a intense return of hunger.
"It was like something activating and you become starving," recalled a patient.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Figures show that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Use is higher among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians stress that while these medications are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing behavioural management.
