A recent study suggests that patients who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds far faster than those who halt traditional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a leading health publication shows that while overweight people can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People using these treatments should be informed of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the medication ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a reversion to original weight within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The research, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
The team point out that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically see a slower creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Experts propose the way of the jabs accounts for the heightened rebound.
These medications copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also lessen sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the treatment is often ongoing.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the persistent nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
People who have come off the jabs report a intense return of hunger.
"It was like something activating and you're instantly ravenous," described an individual.
This challenge is compounded if users have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Survey data suggest that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Use is greater among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while these medications are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss hinges on combined behavioural support.
