New research reveals that people who discontinue blockbuster slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds far faster than those who end traditional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People buying these treatments should be informed of the risk of fast weight regain when the medication is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a return to original mass within about 18 months.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team emphasize that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise typically see a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Doctors suggest the way of the drugs accounts for the amplified regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
Health authorities advise the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "underscore the long-term nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Experiences
People who have come off the medication describe a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced a switch activating and you become extremely hungry," said one woman.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Survey data show that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and lasting health benefits likely depends on integrated behavioural management.
