New research reveals that individuals who come off new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who end traditional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal shows that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People buying such medications must be aware of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a reversion to original mass in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists emphasize that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically have a more gradual creep back—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the heightened regain.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels several times higher 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 actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, given the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often ongoing.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "highlight the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the jabs report a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," said a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if patients have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates suggest that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is more common among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and lasting health benefits hinges on integrated behavioural support.
