New research suggests that individuals who stop using new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal points out that while overweight people frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals using these drugs should be informed of the danger of quick weight regain when the therapy ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to starting weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which examined dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists note that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically see a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Experts propose the way of the injections explains the amplified rebound.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than normal may cause the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities advise the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
Users who have discontinued the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a trigger activating and I was suddenly starving," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if patients have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Recent estimates indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while these medications are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and long-term success relies on ongoing behavioural management.
