New research indicates that patients who discontinue new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the mass comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users purchasing these drugs need to be aware of the risk of rapid weight regain when the therapy concludes," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a return to original weight in about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Researchers note that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise typically experience a slower creep back—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the injections accounts for the heightened regain.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities recommend the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "underscore the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Users who have come off the medication report a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a switch activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
The struggle is compounded if users have not established permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Survey data indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing lifestyle support.
