New research suggests that individuals who come off new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a major medical journal shows that while obese people frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals using such drugs should be informed of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a return to original weight in about a year and a half.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which reviewed dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally see a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Experts propose the way of the jabs explains the accelerated weight return.
The injections copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this medication results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "highlight the long-term character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
People who have stopped the jabs explain a intense resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and you become ravenous," recalled one woman.
This difficulty is worsened if users have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Recent estimates suggest that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts caution that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and lasting health benefits hinges on integrated behavioural management.
