A recent study reveals that people who come off new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a leading medical journal points out that while obese individuals often shed a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users buying such drugs need to be informed of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a reversion to starting weight in about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers point out that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally have a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
These medications copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the therapy is often ongoing.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "underscore the chronic character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs report a sudden return of appetite.
"It was like a trigger activating and I was suddenly ravenous," described one woman.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Growing Use
Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Use is higher among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and long-term success likely depends on integrated behavioural management.
