New research suggests that individuals who stop using popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a prominent health publication points out that while obese individuals often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users using these treatments should be aware of the danger of fast weight regain when the medication ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a return to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which reviewed dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the results of these new drugs with older methods.
The team emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically experience a more gradual creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Experts propose the mechanism of the drugs explains the amplified weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication means hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS recommend the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "underscore the persistent nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
Users who have come off the jabs report a intense return of appetite.
"I experienced a switch activating and you become ravenous," said an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Significant Use
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts caution that while these medications are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success hinges on ongoing lifestyle management.
