New research suggests that patients who stop using new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a leading medical journal shows that while obese individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People buying these drugs must be cognizant of the danger of fast weight regain when the treatment concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a reversion to starting mass within about 18 months.
Comparing Therapies
The research, which reviewed dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists emphasize that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Doctors believe the mechanism of the injections is key to understanding the heightened regain.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, given the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "emphasize the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Testimonies
People who have stopped the medication describe a powerful return of appetite.
"It was like a switch flipping and you become starving," described one woman.
This challenge is compounded if users have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Survey data show that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while these medications are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success likely depends on integrated lifestyle changes.
