New research indicates that people who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover lost weight far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals can lose a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People using these medications should be cognizant of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a return to original mass within about a year and a half.
Comparing Approaches
The research, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally have a less rapid weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Doctors propose the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the amplified regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS advise the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment is often ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the chronic nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
People who have discontinued the medication report a powerful return of hunger.
"It was like a switch flipping and you become starving," described a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates suggest that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while these medications are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing behavioural changes.
