New research suggests that patients who come off new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop conventional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese individuals can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users buying such drugs must be cognizant of the risk of fast weight regain when the therapy is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a return to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists point out that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally have a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Experts believe the mode of action of the injections explains the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the therapy is often ongoing.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "underscore the long-term character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have come off the medication report a intense resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a switch activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is compounded if patients have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Use
Figures suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Use is more common among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts stress that while these medications are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss relies on combined behavioural changes.
