New research suggests that people who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover reduced body mass far faster than those who halt traditional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a prominent health publication points out that while overweight people often shed a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People using such treatments should be informed of the danger of fast weight regain when the medication is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to original mass within about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The research, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that people who lose weight through dieting usually experience a less rapid creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Rapid Rebound
Experts propose the way of the injections explains the heightened regain.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities suggest the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the chronic nature of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," said one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts caution that while the jabs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss hinges on integrated lifestyle support.
