New research reveals that individuals who come off new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover shed pounds much more quickly than those who end traditional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a major medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals can lose about a fifth 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 buying such medications must be aware of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a return to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically see a slower weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Doctors believe the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the heightened weight return.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication means appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
People who have come off the medication explain a intense return of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and you're instantly starving," recalled one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Widespread Use
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Use is greater among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and long-term success likely depends on integrated behavioural changes.
