Fresh analysis suggests that people who stop using new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a major health publication shows that while obese individuals can lose a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals using such drugs must be aware of the danger of rapid weight regain when the medication is stopped," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to original mass in about one and a half years.
Comparing Approaches
The research, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with other pills.
The team note that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually have a less rapid creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Experts propose the mechanism of the jabs explains the heightened rebound.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Experiences
Users who have stopped the medication describe a intense resurgence of hunger.
"It was like a switch flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if users have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Use is higher among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts caution that while the jabs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and long-term success hinges on combined behavioural support.
