A recent study indicates that patients who stop using popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese people frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals using these treatments must be aware of the danger of fast weight regain when the therapy is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a return to starting mass within about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically have a slower weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Rapid Rebound
Doctors propose the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the heightened regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs describe a sudden return of appetite.
"It was like a trigger that goes on and you're instantly ravenous," said one woman.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined lifestyle support.
