Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who discontinue new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover reduced body mass far faster than those who halt traditional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a major medical journal shows that while obese people frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals purchasing such treatments should be cognizant of the risk of quick weight regain when the medication is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a return to pre-treatment mass in about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Researchers note that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually experience a more gradual creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Experts believe the mode of action of the injections explains the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
The NHS advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, given the high risk of weight regain, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "highlight the chronic nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the medication report a powerful return of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and you become ravenous," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if users have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Survey data indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among females than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success likely depends on combined behavioural changes.
