Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who stop using popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who end traditional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People buying such medications should be aware of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a reversion to original mass in about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that people who lose weight through diet and exercise typically experience a less rapid creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Doctors propose the mechanism of the injections explains the accelerated weight return.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "underscore the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the medication report a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced something flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," said a patient.
The struggle is compounded if patients have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Survey data indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers stress that while the jabs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss relies on combined lifestyle support.
