Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who come off popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals using such drugs need to be aware of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a return to original weight in about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
The team note that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally have a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Experts suggest the way of the drugs explains the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this medication means appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the long-term character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the medication report a intense resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and you become ravenous," recalled one woman.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Figures show that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among women than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts caution that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and long-term success hinges on ongoing behavioural changes.
