New research reveals that individuals who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who end traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a prominent health publication points out that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People purchasing such medications should be cognizant of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to starting weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists point out that people who shed pounds through dieting generally have a more gradual weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Experts believe the mode of action of the injections explains the accelerated weight return.
These medications copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
People who have stopped the jabs report a sudden return of cravings.
"I experienced a switch that goes on and I was suddenly starving," described a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if users have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Figures indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Use is more common among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and long-term success relies on combined behavioural support.
