New research suggests that patients who come off popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt traditional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a leading medical journal points out that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals buying these medications should be cognizant of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the medication ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about 18 months.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through dieting typically see a slower weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Experts believe the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the amplified regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication means appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "underscore the persistent character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
Individuals who have come off the jabs describe a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and you become starving," recalled an individual.
This challenge is worsened if patients have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Survey data indicate that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss relies on combined behavioural changes.
