New research indicates that patients who come off popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop conventional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a major health publication shows that while obese individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users purchasing such treatments should be cognizant of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which examined dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists note that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually have a more gradual weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Doctors propose the mechanism of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
The NHS recommend the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the therapy is often ongoing.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the persistent character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Users who have come off the medication report a intense resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and you become extremely hungry," said an individual.
This challenge is compounded if users have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Interest
Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Use is more common among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while these medications are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success likely depends on combined lifestyle support.
