New research reveals that patients who stop using new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end conventional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a leading health publication points out that while overweight people frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users using these treatments need to be aware of the danger of rapid weight regain when the treatment concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team emphasize that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise generally experience a slower creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the injections is key to understanding the amplified regain.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment is often life-long.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "underscore the long-term character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs describe a intense return of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," described an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Figures indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts stress that while these medications are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing lifestyle management.
