New research suggests that people who come off new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a leading medical journal shows that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People using such medications must be aware of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a reversion to starting mass in about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally see a less rapid creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists believe the mode of action of the jabs explains the accelerated rebound.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Testimonies
People who have discontinued the medication explain a intense resurgence of hunger.
"It was like a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly starving," said one woman.
The struggle is compounded if users have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians emphasize that while these medications are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss hinges on integrated lifestyle support.
