Quick Weight Loss, Fast Weight Gain: The Slimming Jab Dilemma
The Catch
Slimming jabs like Mounjaro and Wegovy help people lose weight quickly. But, they come with a catch. Once people stop using them, they gain weight back fast. About four times faster than those who diet and exercise.
The Numbers
- Weight Loss: Around one-fifth of body weight.
- Weight Gain: About 0.8 kg every month after stopping.
- Time to Return to Starting Weight: Just a year and a half.
Expert Warnings
Experts warn that people need to know about this risk. They say more studies are needed to understand the long-term effects. The research looked at 37 studies with over 9,000 patients. But, only eight of these studies were on the newer GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro.
Diet and Exercise
People who diet and exercise lose less weight. But, they gain it back more slowly. Around 0.1 kg a month.
NHS Recommendations
The NHS recommends these jabs for people with obesity-related health risks. Not just for those who want to lose a bit of weight.
Lifestyle Changes
Doctors also advise lifestyle changes. Like eating healthy and exercising. Many say the treatment should be life-long. Because of the risk of gaining weight back.
Personal Experiences
People who have tried coming off the jabs describe it as tough. One woman said it felt like a switch turned on. She felt hungry all the time.
How the Jabs Work
Experts say the jabs work by mimicking a natural hormone called GLP-1. This hormone regulates hunger.
Potential Issues
Artificially high levels of GLP-1 might make the body produce less of its own. And make the body less sensitive to its effects. So, when people stop the jabs, they feel hungrier. And they are more likely to overeat.
Usage Statistics
- 1.6 million UK adults have used these injections in the past year.
- 3.3 million people say they would like to try them.
- Twice as common among women compared to men.
- More common among people in their 40s and 50s.
Health Benefits and Risks
Experts say the jabs could provide health benefits. By helping people lose weight fast. But, they stress that continued use is necessary. To maintain lower weight and overall health.
Prescription Rules
GPs and specialist services can't automatically prescribe these drugs. Even if patients have already been prescribed them privately. The drugs can be offered to those in greatest clinical need. Who meet certain criteria, like having weight-related health problems.
Prescription Limits
- Mounjaro: No time limit on the NHS.
- Wegovy: Maximum of two years.
Pharmaceutical Companies' Stance
Pharmaceutical companies stress the importance of healthy eating, physical activity, and medical follow-up. They say weight return reflects the biology of the condition. Not a lack of effort.
