Users Discontinuing Slimming Medications Put On Weight at a Quadrupled Rate Compared to People Using Diet and Exercise
A recent study reveals that people who come off new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt traditional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a prominent health publication points out that while obese people often shed a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals buying such treatments should be informed of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a reversion to starting mass within about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The analysis, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally see a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Doctors propose the way of the injections explains the accelerated rebound.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities advise the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "underscore the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Testimonies
Users who have discontinued the jabs describe a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced something that goes on and you become starving," recalled a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Use
Figures indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Use is more common among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians stress that while the jabs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and long-term success likely depends on combined lifestyle management.