New research reveals that patients who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who end traditional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a prominent medical journal points out that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People buying such medications must be informed of the danger of quick weight regain when the therapy is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a return to original mass in about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Scientists emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting generally experience a less rapid creep back—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Doctors suggest the way of the drugs explains the accelerated weight return.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, given the likelihood of relapse, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Users who have stopped the jabs report a powerful return of cravings.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and you're instantly extremely hungry," described one woman.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Use is higher among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians stress that while these medications are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and lasting health benefits relies on integrated behavioural support.
