A recent study suggests that individuals who stop using popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who end conventional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a prominent health publication shows that while overweight individuals can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People purchasing these medications must be aware of the potential of fast weight regain when the medication is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a return to starting weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The research, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers point out that people who shed pounds through dieting generally experience a more gradual creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Doctors propose the way of the jabs accounts for the accelerated rebound.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, due to the high risk of relapse, the therapy is often life-long.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the long-term nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
People who have come off the medication explain a powerful return of hunger.
"It was like a trigger activating and you become starving," described a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Figures indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined behavioural support.
