A recent study suggests that people who stop using new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a prominent health publication points out that while obese people can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People buying these drugs need to be cognizant of the danger of rapid weight regain when the therapy ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to original mass within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which examined dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with older methods.
The team note that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually see a less rapid creep back—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the heightened weight return.
These medications copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities suggest the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the treatment is often long-term.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the long-term character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
Users who have discontinued the jabs report a powerful return of appetite.
"I experienced something flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled one woman.
This challenge is worsened if patients have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is more common among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss hinges on combined behavioural management.
