A recent study suggests that patients who stop using new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight far faster than those who stop traditional lifestyle regimens.
Published data in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People buying these treatments should be informed of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a return to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which examined dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually have a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Experts believe the mechanism of the injections explains the accelerated regain.
The injections copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication means hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "highlight the chronic character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Experiences
People who have discontinued the medication explain a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and you're instantly starving," recalled one woman.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Survey data show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and long-term success hinges on integrated behavioural changes.
