New research reveals that patients who come off popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt conventional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a leading medical journal points out that while obese individuals can lose a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People using these medications need to be informed of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a return to original weight in about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of these new drugs with other pills.
The team point out that people who lose weight through diet and exercise typically see a less rapid creep back—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the mechanism of the injections accounts for the amplified weight return.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than normal may cause the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS advise the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "underscore the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the medication explain a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if a switch flipping and you're instantly ravenous," said a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Use
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Use is greater among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss hinges on combined behavioural changes.
