New research reveals that people who come off new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight individuals often shed about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users purchasing such drugs need to be informed of the danger of fast weight regain when the treatment is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Researchers point out that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually see a more gradual weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the amplified regain.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than normal might result in the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "highlight the long-term character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Users who have discontinued the jabs explain a sudden return of hunger.
"It was like a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," described one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Survey data suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while these medications are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing lifestyle changes.
