Fresh analysis reveals that people who stop using popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass far faster than those who halt traditional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a prominent health publication shows that while overweight individuals often shed about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People purchasing these drugs should be informed of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the medication ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a return to original weight within about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Scientists note that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually have a less rapid creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Experts believe the way of the jabs explains the heightened rebound.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal may cause the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication means hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy is often life-long.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "highlight the long-term character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
Users who have come off the jabs report a intense resurgence of appetite.
"It was like something that goes on and I was suddenly starving," said a patient.
This difficulty is compounded if patients have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Significant Use
Survey data indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Use is higher among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing behavioural changes.
