A recent study reveals that people who stop using popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a major medical journal shows that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Users using such treatments should be aware of the potential of fast weight regain when the medication concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers point out that people who lose weight through dieting typically see a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the accelerated regain.
These medications copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Issue?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "emphasize the long-term character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Users who have stopped the medication explain a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced a switch that goes on and I was suddenly extremely hungry," described one woman.
This difficulty is compounded if users have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Interest
Figures indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Use is higher among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and long-term success hinges on ongoing lifestyle changes.
