New research reveals that patients who stop using new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover reduced body mass far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a major health publication points out that while overweight people can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People using these treatments must be aware of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a return to pre-treatment weight within about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Scientists note that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Experts suggest the mechanism of the injections accounts for the accelerated weight return.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "highlight the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Users who have come off the jabs describe a intense resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced something that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Use is more common among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success likely depends on ongoing lifestyle changes.
