A recent study suggests that individuals who come off popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a prominent health publication shows that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People buying such drugs must be aware of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Comparing Approaches
The research, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Scientists emphasize that people who lose weight through diet and exercise typically have a more gradual creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Experts suggest the mechanism of the drugs explains the amplified regain.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this medication leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "highlight the persistent character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have discontinued the jabs describe a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and I was suddenly ravenous," said an individual.
This challenge is compounded if users have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Figures show that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts caution that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing lifestyle support.
