New research reveals that people who stop using new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal points out that while overweight people can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People buying such medications should be aware of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a return to pre-treatment weight within about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that individuals who shed pounds through dieting usually have a more gradual creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Doctors propose the mode of action of the injections explains the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than normal might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement means hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the treatment is often ongoing.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "underscore the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the medication describe a sudden return of appetite.
"It was like a switch flipping and you become starving," described one woman.
The struggle is worsened if individuals have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, experts caution that while these medications are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated behavioural changes.
