Fresh analysis reveals that people who stop using popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals purchasing these drugs need to be cognizant of the risk of quick weight regain when the treatment ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a return to starting weight within about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Scientists point out that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise typically experience a more gradual weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Experts propose the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than normal may cause the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this medication results in hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
Health authorities suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment is often ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "highlight the chronic character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
People who have come off the medication describe a intense resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a switch activating and I was suddenly ravenous," described one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not established permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Widespread Use
Survey data show that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss hinges on combined behavioural support.
