New research suggests that people who discontinue new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a major medical journal shows that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People using these drugs need to be aware of the danger of rapid weight regain when the treatment is stopped," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to starting weight in about 18 months.
Comparing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
The team note that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a slower weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Doctors propose the mechanism of the drugs explains the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "underscore the chronic nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Experiences
Individuals who have come off the jabs describe a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Survey data suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while these medications are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and lasting health benefits hinges on combined behavioural management.
