New research reveals that people who come off new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who halt traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a major medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals often shed a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users buying these drugs should be informed of the risk of quick weight regain when the therapy is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Analyzing Therapies
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
The team note that people who lose weight through dieting typically see a less rapid weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Doctors believe the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the heightened weight return.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement means appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
People who have discontinued the jabs report a intense return of cravings.
"I experienced a switch that goes on and I was suddenly starving," said one woman.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Survey data suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Use is more common among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing lifestyle management.
