New research suggests that people who discontinue new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who halt traditional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a major health publication points out that while obese individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users purchasing these drugs must be informed of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a reversion to original mass in about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically see a less rapid weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Doctors believe the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "emphasize the long-term character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
People who have discontinued the jabs explain a powerful return of cravings.
"It was like something flipping and you become extremely hungry," recalled one woman.
The struggle is compounded if users have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Interest
Figures suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, experts stress that while these medications are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success hinges on integrated behavioural support.
