A recent study suggests that people who stop using popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt conventional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a prominent medical journal points out that while overweight individuals can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the mass is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People using these drugs need to be informed of the danger of rapid weight regain when the medication concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Researchers point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting typically see a less rapid weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
The NHS suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the treatment is often life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "underscore the long-term nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
People who have come off the medication explain a powerful return of hunger.
"It was like something that goes on and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Recent estimates suggest that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among females than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success relies on integrated behavioural management.