New research reveals that patients who stop using new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional lifestyle regimens.
Published data in a leading health publication shows that while obese people frequently drop substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals purchasing these treatments should be informed of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a return to starting weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which examined 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team point out that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally experience a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Doctors believe the mechanism of the drugs explains the amplified rebound.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this medication means hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "underscore the long-term character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Experiences
Users who have come off the jabs describe a powerful return of hunger.
"It was like a switch that goes on and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Interest
Figures indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while these medications are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and lasting health benefits hinges on combined behavioural changes.
