New research indicates that patients who discontinue new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who end conventional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a prominent health publication shows that while obese individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People buying such drugs should be informed of the potential of quick weight regain when the therapy is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a return to original weight in about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
The team emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through dieting usually have a less rapid creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Doctors believe the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the amplified regain.
These medications copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "emphasize the chronic character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the medication explain a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a switch that goes on and you're instantly starving," described a patient.
The struggle is compounded if patients have not established permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Significant Interest
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss hinges on integrated behavioural changes.
