A recent study suggests that patients who come off new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who stop conventional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a leading health publication shows that while obese individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users buying such treatments need to be aware of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The analysis, which examined 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists note that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically see a less rapid creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the drugs explains the heightened weight return.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal might result in the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "highlight the persistent nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
Users who have come off the jabs report a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a switch activating and I was suddenly starving," said one woman.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Interest
Survey data suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among females than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success hinges on ongoing lifestyle changes.
