A recent study suggests that individuals who stop using popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight people often shed a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying these treatments need to be aware of the danger of fast weight regain when the therapy concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a return to pre-treatment weight in about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that people who lose weight through diet and exercise generally experience a more gradual weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Experts believe the mode of action of the jabs explains the heightened rebound.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "highlight the persistent nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
People who have discontinued the medication describe a powerful return of appetite.
"It was like a switch flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," described a patient.
This challenge is worsened if patients have not established lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, experts caution that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and lasting health benefits relies on ongoing behavioural changes.
