New research indicates that people who come off new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a major health publication shows that while overweight people often shed a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users purchasing such treatments must be cognizant of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a return to starting weight within about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Experts believe the mechanism of the injections accounts for the heightened rebound.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this medication results in appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Condition?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy is often life-long.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "emphasize the long-term character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
People who have discontinued the jabs describe a sudden return of appetite.
"It was like a trigger flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled one woman.
This difficulty is exacerbated if users have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Figures indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Use is more common among females than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing lifestyle management.
