Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a major health publication demonstrates that while obese individuals often shed a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users using such medications must be cognizant of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a return to original mass in about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with older methods.
The team point out that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally see a more gradual creep back—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Doctors suggest the way of the injections explains the heightened rebound.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the treatment is often life-long.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "underscore the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have come off the jabs report a sudden return of hunger.
"It felt as if a switch flipping and you become starving," recalled a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Growing Interest
Survey data indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts emphasize that while these medications are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and long-term success likely depends on ongoing behavioural changes.
