New research suggests that individuals who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal shows that while overweight people can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals using these medications must be aware of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to original mass within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally have a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Experts believe the mode of action of the injections explains the amplified weight return.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "highlight the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Users who have stopped the medication report a sudden return of hunger.
"It felt as if something that goes on and you become starving," recalled one woman.
This challenge is worsened if users have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Interest
Survey data indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Use is greater among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians stress that while the jabs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and long-term success hinges on ongoing behavioural support.
