A recent study reveals that people who stop using popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who end traditional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People using such treatments must be cognizant of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a reversion to starting mass within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team emphasize that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually see a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the mechanism of the injections accounts for the accelerated regain.
These medications copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Condition?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the medication explain a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and I was suddenly starving," recalled one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates suggest that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is higher among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and long-term success likely depends on combined lifestyle changes.
