New research reveals that patients who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover lost weight far faster than those who stop conventional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a leading health publication shows that while overweight people can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People buying such medications should be cognizant of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment mass in about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically have a less rapid creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the injections accounts for the heightened regain.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the likelihood of relapse, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "underscore the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
People who have discontinued the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a switch activating and you're instantly ravenous," said an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Recent estimates show that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while these medications are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss hinges on combined behavioural changes.
