A recent study reveals that people who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end conventional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese individuals often shed a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People buying these treatments must be aware of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a return to starting weight in about a year and a half.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Researchers note that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise typically experience a less rapid creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Experts believe the mechanism of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the chronic character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
Users who have discontinued the medication describe a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"It was like something that goes on and you become extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Survey data show that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while the jabs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and long-term success likely depends on ongoing lifestyle support.
