A recent study indicates that people who discontinue new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a major medical journal points out that while overweight people often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals using such drugs must be cognizant of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a return to original weight in about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team point out that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally see a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Doctors propose the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "underscore the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Users who have stopped the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if something flipping and I was suddenly starving," said one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Figures show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Use is higher 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 healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts caution that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated behavioural support.
