A recent study reveals that people who come off new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a leading medical journal points out that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying these medications need to be cognizant of the risk of fast weight regain when the medication concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a reversion to original mass within about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which reviewed dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team note that people who lose weight through dieting typically experience a slower creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Experts propose the mechanism of the injections accounts for the heightened weight return.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS advise the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "highlight the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs describe a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced something that goes on and I was suddenly starving," recalled one woman.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts caution that while these medications are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss hinges on combined behavioural management.
