A recent study reveals that patients who come off new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover lost weight much more quickly than those who stop conventional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese people often shed a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals using these medications need to be cognizant of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a reversion to starting mass in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a slower creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Experts believe the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than normal may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, given the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "underscore the chronic nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Experiences
People who have stopped the medication describe a intense resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a switch activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is compounded if patients have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Survey data show that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while these medications are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and lasting health benefits hinges on combined behavioural support.
