Fresh analysis indicates that people who stop using popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a major medical journal points out that while obese individuals can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Users purchasing these treatments should be cognizant of the danger of quick weight regain when the treatment concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a return to original weight in about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a slower creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Doctors believe the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "emphasize the chronic character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
People who have discontinued the jabs report a intense resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a switch flipping and you become starving," recalled one woman.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not established lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Use
Survey data suggest that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success relies on combined behavioural support.
