New research reveals that patients who come off popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt conventional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a leading medical journal shows that while overweight individuals often shed a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users using these drugs must be aware of the potential of fast weight regain when the medication ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to starting mass within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The analysis, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
The team note that people who lose weight through dieting typically experience a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Doctors believe the way of the drugs explains the heightened regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication means hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment is often ongoing.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "emphasize the chronic character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Users who have stopped the medication describe a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced something activating and you're instantly starving," said a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Use
Figures indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Use is higher among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts stress that while these medications are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and long-term success likely depends on combined lifestyle changes.
