New research indicates that patients who come off new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a major health publication demonstrates that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users buying these drugs need to be aware of the danger of quick weight regain when the therapy ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting typically have a more gradual creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Doctors propose the mechanism of the jabs explains the amplified weight return.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Condition?
The NHS suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy is often life-long.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "emphasize the long-term nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
Users who have come off the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly starving," described a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while the jabs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss hinges on combined lifestyle support.
