New research suggests that patients who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a leading health publication demonstrates that while obese individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People purchasing these medications should be aware of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a reversion to pre-treatment mass in about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The study, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team point out that people who lose weight through diet and exercise typically experience a less rapid weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Doctors believe the way of the injections is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating far more likely."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "emphasize the chronic nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs describe a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It was like something activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," described a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Interest
Figures indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Use is greater among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts stress that while these medications are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss hinges on combined behavioural changes.
