A recent study suggests that individuals who discontinue blockbuster slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People purchasing such drugs must be informed of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a return to original weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The research, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team point out that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically experience a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the way of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "highlight the persistent nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
Users who have come off the medication describe a sudden return of hunger.
"It was like something that goes on and you become ravenous," described one woman.
This difficulty is compounded if users have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Figures indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and lasting health benefits hinges on combined behavioural management.