Fresh analysis indicates that people who stop using popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover lost weight much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a prominent health publication points out that while overweight people often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users purchasing such medications need to be cognizant of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a return to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically have a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Experts suggest the mode of action of the injections explains the accelerated rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "underscore the long-term nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
Users who have stopped the medication explain a intense return of appetite.
"It was like a trigger activating and you become ravenous," said a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if users have not established lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Figures indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while these medications are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success relies on ongoing lifestyle management.
