New research suggests that individuals who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while overweight individuals can lose a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the mass is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People using such treatments should be informed of the danger of quick weight regain when the medication ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Researchers note that people who shed pounds through dieting generally see a less rapid creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the way of the jabs accounts for the amplified regain.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication means appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities advise the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the persistent character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Accounts
Users who have stopped the jabs explain a powerful return of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and you become starving," recalled a patient.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Survey data show that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Use is higher among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts caution that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and lasting health benefits relies on ongoing behavioural changes.
