Fresh analysis reveals that people who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover reduced body mass much more quickly than those who end conventional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a major medical journal shows that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People using these medications need to be aware of the danger of quick weight regain when the medication concludes," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a reversion to starting mass within about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The analysis, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of these new drugs with older methods.
The team emphasize that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually see a slower weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the way of the injections explains the amplified regain.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this medication results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
People who have discontinued the jabs report a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a switch activating and you become starving," recalled an individual.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not established permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Use
Figures indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Use is more common among females than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and long-term success hinges on combined lifestyle support.
