A recent study reveals that people who discontinue new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who halt traditional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a major medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People purchasing such treatments must be cognizant of the potential of fast weight regain when the medication concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a return to original mass within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a more gradual weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Experts propose the way of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Condition?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "highlight the chronic character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the jabs report a sudden return of appetite.
"I experienced a switch flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said a patient.
This difficulty is compounded if users have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Survey data suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians caution that while the jabs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and long-term success likely depends on integrated behavioural changes.
