New research suggests that people who come off popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a major medical journal shows that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People purchasing such drugs must be aware of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to original mass within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise generally have a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Experts propose the mode of action of the jabs explains the amplified weight return.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities advise the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment is often long-term.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "emphasize the long-term character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the medication report a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a trigger that goes on and you become extremely hungry," described a patient.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Figures indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts caution that while the jabs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and lasting health benefits hinges on ongoing behavioural management.
