New research suggests that individuals who come off new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass far faster than those who end conventional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users purchasing such medications need to be aware of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Scientists emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting usually experience a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the heightened rebound.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment is often ongoing.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
People who have stopped the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a switch activating and you become extremely hungry," said one woman.
The struggle is compounded if users have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Survey data suggest that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts caution that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss relies on integrated behavioural changes.
