Fresh analysis suggests that people who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover shed pounds far faster than those who stop conventional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a leading health publication shows that while overweight individuals can lose a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People using these drugs must be cognizant of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to original mass in about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally see a more gradual creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Experts propose the mode of action of the injections accounts for the amplified rebound.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels far above than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "emphasize the persistent nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
People who have come off the jabs explain a intense return of appetite.
"I experienced something activating and you become extremely hungry," described one woman.
This difficulty is worsened if users have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Significant Use
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers caution that while the jabs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss hinges on integrated lifestyle changes.
