New research suggests that individuals who come off popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while overweight individuals often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals using such treatments need to be informed of the potential of rapid weight regain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment mass within about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team point out that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically experience a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the way of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
The injections copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "underscore the persistent character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
People who have stopped the medication describe a sudden return of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and you become extremely hungry," described one woman.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not established permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Recent estimates suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts caution that while these medications are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and lasting health benefits hinges on combined lifestyle management.
