A recent study suggests that patients who discontinue new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who halt conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals often shed a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals purchasing these treatments should be cognizant of the risk of fast weight regain when the treatment is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to original mass within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Therapies
The research, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists note that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a more gradual weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Experts believe the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities suggest the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment is often life-long.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "underscore the persistent nature of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Experiences
Individuals who have come off the jabs explain a intense return of cravings.
"It was like something flipping and you become extremely hungry," said one woman.
This challenge is compounded if users have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Figures indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined lifestyle changes.
