Fresh analysis indicates that people who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a major medical journal shows that while obese people frequently drop substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the mass is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals purchasing such medications should be informed of the potential of rapid weight regain when the treatment is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a return to original weight in about one and a half years.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a less rapid weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Doctors believe the mechanism of the drugs explains the amplified regain.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Condition?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the long-term character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
Users who have come off the jabs report a powerful return of appetite.
"It was like a trigger activating and you become extremely hungry," described an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates suggest that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and long-term success likely depends on integrated lifestyle support.
