New research indicates that patients who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who stop conventional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a major medical journal shows that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals using such treatments need to be informed of the danger of quick weight regain when the medication concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a reversion to original mass in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team note that individuals who shed pounds through dieting generally experience a slower creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Rapid Rebound
Experts believe the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the accelerated weight return.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "underscore the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Accounts
Users who have discontinued the jabs report a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a switch flipping and you become extremely hungry," described one woman.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not established lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Use is higher among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts stress that while the jabs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural changes.
