A recent study suggests that people who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight far faster than those who halt traditional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a leading medical journal shows that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals buying these medications need to be aware of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a reversion to original mass within about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The research, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise usually have a less rapid creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the heightened weight return.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this medication results in appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "emphasize the chronic character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
People who have discontinued the jabs describe a powerful return of hunger.
"It was like something flipping and you become starving," described one woman.
This difficulty is worsened if patients have not established permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Use
Survey data indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Use is more common among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while these medications are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and long-term success relies on ongoing behavioural changes.
