A recent study suggests that individuals who come off new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover lost weight much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese individuals can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users using such drugs need to be informed of the risk of rapid weight regain when the medication concludes," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a return to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise generally see a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Experts suggest the mode of action of the injections explains the accelerated regain.
The injections copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, given the high risk of weight regain, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the chronic character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
Users who have stopped the medication describe a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if something activating and I was suddenly starving," said an individual.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Figures suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts emphasize that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing lifestyle support.
