A recent study indicates that patients who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who end conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese individuals can lose a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People using such drugs need to be aware of the potential of fast weight regain when the therapy concludes," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to starting weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team emphasize that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally have a slower weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the amplified weight return.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, given the high risk of weight regain, the therapy is often long-term.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "highlight the long-term character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
Users who have discontinued the jabs explain a sudden return of cravings.
"It was like a switch flipping and I was suddenly starving," said an individual.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Interest
Figures suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is greater among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts caution that while these medications are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing behavioural changes.
