A recent study suggests that patients who discontinue new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a leading health publication demonstrates that while overweight individuals often shed a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users purchasing these medications must be cognizant of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a reversion to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
Researchers point out that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually see a more gradual creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Experts propose the mechanism of the jabs explains the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities recommend the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "highlight the long-term character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Testimonies
People who have discontinued the medication describe a intense resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced something that goes on and I was suddenly extremely hungry," described a patient.
The struggle is worsened if individuals have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Figures show that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while these medications are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on integrated lifestyle support.
