New research reveals that people who stop using popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass far faster than those who stop conventional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a leading medical journal points out that while obese individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People purchasing these drugs must be informed of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a reversion to pre-treatment mass within about one and a half years.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which examined dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually see a more gradual weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Doctors suggest the way of the injections accounts for the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
The NHS advise the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have come off the medication explain a intense resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a switch flipping and you're instantly starving," recalled an individual.
The struggle is compounded if patients have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while these medications are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success hinges on combined lifestyle changes.
