Fresh analysis suggests that patients who stop using new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who end conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a major medical journal points out that while obese individuals often shed about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People using these drugs must be cognizant of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the medication ends," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a return to original mass in about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The analysis, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through diet and exercise generally have a more gradual creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Experts propose the mechanism of the injections accounts for the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than normal might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
Health authorities advise the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "underscore the long-term nature of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the medication explain a intense return of hunger.
"It was like something flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Interest
Survey data show that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and long-term success hinges on integrated behavioural management.
