New research indicates that patients who come off popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt traditional lifestyle regimens.
Published data in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while obese individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Users purchasing these treatments should be informed of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a return to starting mass within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually have a more gradual weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Experts believe the way of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this medication leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "emphasize the chronic nature of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Experiences
People who have come off the jabs explain a intense return of cravings.
"It was like a trigger that goes on and you're instantly starving," recalled one woman.
The struggle is worsened if users have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Use is greater among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss relies on combined lifestyle changes.
