A recent study reveals that individuals who come off popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who stop conventional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users purchasing these drugs should be aware of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a reversion to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Scientists point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally see a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated rebound.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
Health authorities advise the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "underscore the long-term character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the medication explain a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch activating and you become starving," said one woman.
This difficulty is exacerbated if patients have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Recent estimates suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Use is higher among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success hinges on ongoing behavioural management.
