New research suggests that people who come off new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese people often shed about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying such medications should be cognizant of the potential of rapid weight regain when the medication ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a reversion to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The analysis, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through dieting typically experience a slower weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the mechanism of the injections is key to understanding the heightened regain.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS advise the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, due to the high risk of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "highlight the persistent nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the medication report a intense resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced a switch activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," described an individual.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not established lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers caution that while the jabs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing lifestyle changes.
