New research reveals that individuals who stop using popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a prominent health publication shows that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People using such treatments should be aware of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a reversion to original weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who lose weight through dieting typically have a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Experts believe the way of the drugs explains the heightened regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, given the high risk of relapse, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "highlight the long-term character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Users who have discontinued the medication report a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a switch that goes on and you're instantly ravenous," said one woman.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Survey data show that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and lasting health benefits relies on combined behavioural management.
