New research suggests that patients who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain reduced body mass far faster than those who end traditional lifestyle regimens.
Published data in a major medical journal points out that while overweight people often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Users buying such drugs need to be cognizant of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to original mass in about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The research, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team note that people who shed pounds through dieting usually have a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Nutrition scientists believe the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the accelerated rebound.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than normal may cause the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the therapy is often life-long.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
People who have stopped the jabs describe a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a trigger flipping and you're instantly starving," recalled a patient.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Use
Survey data show that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while the jabs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and lasting health benefits hinges on combined lifestyle support.
