A recent study suggests that people who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain reduced body mass far faster than those who end conventional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a major medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals using these drugs must be informed of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The research, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers point out that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually see a more gradual weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Doctors believe the mode of action of the injections accounts for the amplified regain.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "underscore the chronic nature of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the medication report a intense resurgence of hunger.
"It was like a trigger flipping and you become ravenous," described an individual.
The struggle is compounded if users have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, experts emphasize that while these medications are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success relies on integrated behavioural changes.
