New research reveals that people who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a prominent health publication shows that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals buying these medications need to be aware of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Therapies
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally see a slower weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Doctors propose the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy is often long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "highlight the chronic character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have come off the medication explain a powerful return of cravings.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Survey data suggest that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Use is more common among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers caution that while these medications are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and lasting health benefits relies on integrated behavioural management.
