A recent study reveals that individuals who come off popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover lost weight far faster than those who stop traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a prominent health publication shows that while overweight people often shed a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals using such drugs should be informed of the danger of quick weight regain when the medication concludes," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to starting weight within about one and a half years.
Comparing Approaches
The research, which examined 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Scientists emphasize that people who shed pounds through dieting generally experience a slower weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the amplified weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Disease?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the long-term nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Users who have stopped the jabs describe a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"It was like a trigger flipping and you're instantly starving," described an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss relies on combined lifestyle support.
