A recent study reveals that individuals who come off new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass far faster than those who halt traditional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a major medical journal points out that while overweight individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Users using such medications must be aware of the risk of quick weight regain when the medication is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a return to original weight in about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through dieting typically experience a slower creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the amplified rebound.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels far above than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, given the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "underscore the chronic character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
People who have stopped the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced a switch activating and you're instantly ravenous," said one woman.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not established lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Use
Figures show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Use is higher among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts caution that while these medications are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and long-term success relies on combined behavioural management.
