New research indicates that people who come off new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a major health publication points out that while overweight individuals often shed about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users using such treatments must be aware of the danger of fast weight regain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a return to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Comparing Approaches
The research, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
The team note that people who lose weight through dieting generally have a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Doctors believe the mode of action of the jabs explains the amplified weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
Health authorities suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "highlight the persistent character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have come off the jabs explain a sudden return of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and I was suddenly starving," said an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Survey data indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Use is greater among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians caution that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success likely depends on ongoing lifestyle support.
