New research suggests that people who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who end conventional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people often shed a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals purchasing these treatments must be aware of the danger of quick weight regain when the medication is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a reversion to starting weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with other pills.
Scientists note that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a more gradual creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Doctors believe the way of the injections accounts for the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Issue?
The NHS recommend the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
People who have stopped the jabs explain a sudden return of cravings.
"It was like a switch flipping and you're instantly ravenous," recalled one woman.
The struggle is compounded if users have not established permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Figures indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing lifestyle support.
