Fresh analysis indicates that people who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight far faster than those who end conventional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a leading health publication shows that while obese individuals often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People buying such treatments should be aware of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a reversion to starting mass in about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through diet and exercise usually have a slower weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities suggest the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the long-term character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
People who have come off the jabs explain a sudden return of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and you become ravenous," said one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Recent estimates show that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Use is more common among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing lifestyle changes.
