A recent study reveals that patients who come off popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a leading medical journal shows that while obese people can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users buying such medications should be aware of the potential of rapid weight regain when the treatment is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a return to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists emphasize that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually have a more gradual weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the amplified regain.
These medications copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "underscore the chronic nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the jabs explain a sudden return of appetite.
"I experienced something that goes on and you're instantly ravenous," recalled a patient.
The struggle is compounded if users have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Figures indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Use is more common among women than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and lasting health benefits hinges on integrated behavioural management.
