Fresh analysis suggests that people who stop using new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop conventional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a leading health publication demonstrates that while obese individuals often shed a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users purchasing such medications should be aware of the danger of quick weight regain when the therapy concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a return to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually experience a slower weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mechanism of the drugs explains the heightened regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating far more likely."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "emphasize the chronic nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have stopped the medication describe a powerful return of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," described a patient.
The struggle is worsened if users have not established permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Use
Survey data suggest that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Use is more common among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians stress that while these medications are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss relies on combined behavioural changes.
