New research indicates that people who stop using popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who end conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a major health publication points out that while overweight individuals can lose a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users purchasing these drugs need to be informed of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually have a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Experts propose the mode of action of the jabs explains the amplified weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS recommend the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment is often ongoing.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "highlight the chronic character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
People who have stopped the medication report a powerful return of hunger.
"It felt as if something activating and you become starving," recalled a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among women than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing lifestyle support.
