A recent study reveals that people who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover lost weight much more quickly than those who end conventional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a major health publication shows that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals using these drugs must be aware of the risk of rapid weight regain when the medication is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to starting mass within about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists emphasize that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally have a more gradual weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the amplified regain.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the therapy is often ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "emphasize the long-term character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Users who have stopped the jabs report a sudden return of hunger.
"It felt as if something activating and you're instantly starving," said an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Interest
Figures suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts caution that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success relies on integrated lifestyle management.
