A recent study indicates that people who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover lost weight much more quickly than those who end traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a leading medical journal points out that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users using such medications must be informed of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a return to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting typically experience a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Experts propose the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the heightened rebound.
These medications copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "underscore the persistent nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the jabs explain a sudden return of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and you're instantly starving," described a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Use
Survey data suggest that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success relies on integrated behavioural changes.
