A recent study reveals that people who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover shed pounds much more quickly than those who end traditional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users purchasing these medications need to be cognizant of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a reversion to original weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists note that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically experience a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Experts propose the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the heightened regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "emphasize the long-term character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
People who have discontinued the jabs report a sudden return of hunger.
"It felt as if something flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Recent estimates suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Use is greater among females than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss hinges on combined behavioural changes.
