Fresh analysis reveals that patients who come off new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a major medical journal shows that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying such treatments need to be aware of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a reversion to starting weight within about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually have a less rapid creep back—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Experts believe the mechanism of the jabs explains the amplified regain.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS suggest the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "highlight the persistent nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
People who have come off the jabs describe a intense resurgence of hunger.
"It was like a switch that goes on and you become ravenous," recalled a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Interest
Figures show that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while these medications are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated behavioural management.
