A recent study indicates that patients who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who end conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users purchasing such drugs should be informed of the potential of rapid weight regain when the therapy concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to pre-treatment weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Therapies
The study, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Scientists note that individuals who lose weight through dieting typically have a slower creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated rebound.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of 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 may also diminish sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "underscore the long-term character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have come off the medication explain a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if something flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," described one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Use
Survey data suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and lasting health benefits hinges on integrated behavioural support.
