A recent study reveals that people who stop using popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight far faster than those who end conventional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while obese individuals can lose a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users purchasing such drugs should be informed of the risk of rapid weight regain when the medication is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
Researchers point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting typically experience a slower creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Experts propose the mechanism 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.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal might result in the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, given the high risk of relapse, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "highlight the long-term character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Experiences
People who have come off the jabs report a intense return of cravings.
"I experienced a switch activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," described one woman.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Significant Use
Figures indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural support.
