New research indicates that people who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese individuals often shed about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users buying these drugs should be aware of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to starting mass in about a year and a half.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally see a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Experts propose the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal might result in the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
The NHS suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the treatment is often life-long.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "underscore the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Testimonies
People who have stopped the medication report a intense return of cravings.
"It was like a switch flipping and I was suddenly starving," described one woman.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Survey data suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and lasting health benefits hinges on ongoing behavioural management.