Fresh analysis suggests that people who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a major health publication shows that while overweight individuals can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People buying such drugs should be informed of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a return to original weight within about a year and a half.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through dieting usually have a slower weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Experts suggest the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the amplified regain.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication means hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "emphasize the persistent character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced a switch flipping and you're instantly ravenous," described a patient.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates show that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on combined lifestyle management.
