Fresh analysis indicates that people who stop using popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while obese people often shed a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users using such treatments need to be aware of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a return to starting weight in about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through dieting usually have a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "emphasize the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
People who have discontinued the jabs report a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and you're instantly ravenous," described a patient.
This difficulty is compounded if users have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Significant Interest
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Use is more common among women than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers caution that while the jabs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on integrated lifestyle support.
