A recent study reveals that people who stop using new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People buying such drugs should be informed of the risk of quick weight regain when the treatment ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a return to original mass within about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with older methods.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually have a less rapid creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Doctors propose the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Disease?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "underscore the long-term nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a switch activating and you become extremely hungry," said a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if users have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Survey data suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts stress that while the jabs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss relies on integrated behavioural management.
