Fresh analysis suggests that individuals who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a prominent health publication shows that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users buying these treatments need to be aware of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a return to starting weight in about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which reviewed dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Scientists note that people who lose weight through dieting typically have a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the mechanism of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
Users who have come off the jabs report a powerful return of cravings.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and you become ravenous," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if patients have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Interest
Survey data show that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing behavioural management.
