A recent study indicates that individuals who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users purchasing these treatments must be cognizant of the danger of quick weight regain when the treatment concludes," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to starting weight within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a slower weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Doctors believe the mechanism of the drugs explains the amplified rebound.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment is often ongoing.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "underscore the chronic character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
People who have discontinued the jabs report a sudden return of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," described one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Survey data show that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while these medications are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and lasting health benefits relies on ongoing behavioural support.
