New research suggests that people who come off new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop conventional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while obese people frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users using such drugs should be aware of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the medication ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to original weight in about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically have a slower weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Doctors believe the mode of action of the drugs explains the accelerated regain.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication means appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "underscore the chronic character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs describe a intense return of hunger.
"I experienced a switch activating and I was suddenly starving," said an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if users have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Significant Use
Survey data suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers stress that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and lasting health benefits relies on combined lifestyle support.
