New research indicates that people who discontinue new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain reduced body mass far faster than those who halt conventional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a major health publication points out that while obese people often shed a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users using these drugs must be cognizant of the potential of quick weight regain when the medication is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to pre-treatment weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of these new drugs with older methods.
Researchers point out that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally see a less rapid creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the injections explains the heightened weight return.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities advise the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment is often ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Testimonies
People who have come off the medication report a intense resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced something that goes on and you become starving," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if patients have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Use
Figures suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while the jabs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success likely depends on combined behavioural support.
