New research indicates that people who stop using new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt traditional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese people often shed a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users using these medications need to be informed of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a reversion to pre-treatment mass within about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists note that people who shed pounds through dieting generally have a less rapid weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the way of the jabs accounts for the heightened rebound.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels far above than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
People who have stopped the medication report a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a switch activating and I was suddenly starving," said one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Survey data suggest that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among women 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 the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and lasting health benefits likely depends on integrated behavioural management.
