New research suggests that patients who stop using popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People buying these drugs should be cognizant of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The study, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally see a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Doctors propose the way of the injections accounts for the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
The NHS advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "emphasize the long-term nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have discontinued the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and you're instantly extremely hungry," said an individual.
The struggle is compounded if patients have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Figures suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Use is higher among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians emphasize that while these medications are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined lifestyle changes.
