New research reveals that people who come off popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover shed pounds far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People purchasing such treatments need to be informed of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a return to original weight within about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Scientists note that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise usually experience a slower weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the accelerated regain.
These medications copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy is often ongoing.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "underscore the chronic character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the jabs describe a powerful return of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and you're instantly extremely hungry," said an individual.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while these medications are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success hinges on ongoing behavioural support.
