A recent study suggests that people who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover lost weight much more quickly than those who end traditional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying such treatments need to be aware of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The analysis, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
Researchers point out that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally have a slower creep back—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the injections explains the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than normal may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
Health authorities suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy is often long-term.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Users who have come off the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," said a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Interest
Survey data suggest that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on integrated lifestyle support.
