Fresh analysis reveals that people who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a major medical journal shows that while overweight people frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People using these treatments need to be cognizant of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a return to starting weight within about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The analysis, which examined dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team point out that people who shed pounds through dieting usually experience a less rapid creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the accelerated rebound.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the treatment is often life-long.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "emphasize the long-term character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
Users who have discontinued the jabs report a sudden return of cravings.
"It was like a trigger flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," described one woman.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Figures suggest that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is greater among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts caution that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined lifestyle changes.
