New research reveals that patients who come off new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight far faster than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a major health publication shows that while overweight individuals can lose a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users purchasing these drugs must be cognizant of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to pre-treatment mass within about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers note that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise generally experience a slower creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the chronic character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have discontinued the jabs describe a sudden return of appetite.
"It was like a switch flipping and I was suddenly starving," recalled one woman.
This difficulty is compounded if patients have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Use
Figures indicate that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on integrated behavioural changes.
