New research indicates that individuals who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a major health publication shows that while obese individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals buying these drugs must be aware of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a return to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a slower weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Doctors believe the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Issue?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "highlight the persistent character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Testimonies
People who have come off the medication explain a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and you become extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if users have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Use is higher among females than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers caution that while the jabs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and long-term success hinges on integrated behavioural changes.
