Fresh analysis indicates that patients who stop using popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people often shed a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People using such treatments need to be informed of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a return to original weight in about one and a half years.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
Researchers point out that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically see a less rapid weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the way of the drugs explains the accelerated weight return.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement means hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "underscore the long-term nature of obesity," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
People who have stopped the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if a switch activating and you become ravenous," recalled an individual.
The struggle is compounded if users have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Figures indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among women than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing behavioural support.
