Fresh analysis suggests that patients who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop conventional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a major medical journal points out that while obese people can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals using these treatments need to be aware of the risk of fast weight regain when the treatment ends," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to original mass within about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which reviewed dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team note that people who lose weight through dieting usually experience a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Experts suggest the mechanism of the injections is key to understanding the amplified weight return.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
The NHS advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment is often ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "highlight the long-term character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
Individuals who have come off the jabs describe a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"It was like something that goes on and I was suddenly starving," recalled one woman.
The struggle is worsened if users have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Use is higher among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians caution that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and lasting health benefits hinges on ongoing lifestyle changes.
