New research suggests that people who stop using popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover shed pounds far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a leading medical journal shows that while overweight people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals using such treatments need to be aware of the danger of rapid weight regain when the medication ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually see a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Doctors propose the way of the injections accounts for the amplified regain.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication means appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS advise the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
People who have discontinued the medication explain a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly starving," recalled an individual.
The struggle is compounded if users have not established permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Survey data show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while these medications are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and lasting health benefits hinges on integrated behavioural changes.
