New research reveals that individuals who stop using popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a prominent health publication shows that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users purchasing these medications should be aware of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a return to pre-treatment mass in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
The team note that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise typically have a more gradual creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Experts believe the mode of action of the injections explains the amplified weight return.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication means appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities advise the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, due to the high risk of relapse, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "highlight the long-term nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
Users who have stopped the medication report a sudden return of hunger.
"It was like a trigger flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not established permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates show that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians emphasize that while these medications are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing lifestyle changes.
