New research reveals that people who stop using popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while obese people can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the mass comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users buying these medications need to be aware of the danger of rapid weight regain when the therapy concludes," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a return to starting weight in about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Scientists point out that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically experience a less rapid weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Understanding the Rapid Rebound
Experts believe the mechanism of the injections accounts for the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "underscore the long-term nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
People who have stopped the jabs describe a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a switch flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," described an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts emphasize that while the jabs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss hinges on integrated behavioural changes.
