A recent study indicates that patients who stop using new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a major medical journal shows that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals buying these drugs must be informed of the risk of quick weight regain when the medication concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a reversion to pre-treatment mass within about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
The team note that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a less rapid creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Rapid Rebound
Doctors believe the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the amplified rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS recommend the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the long-term nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
People who have discontinued the jabs report a powerful return of cravings.
"It felt as if something flipping and I was suddenly starving," recalled one woman.
This difficulty is compounded if patients have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Interest
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss relies on integrated lifestyle management.
