New research suggests that people who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight far faster than those who end conventional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a prominent health publication points out that while overweight individuals can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying these treatments need to be informed of the risk of quick weight regain when the treatment concludes," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to original weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally have a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Doctors suggest the way of the drugs explains the amplified weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "highlight the chronic character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Testimonies
People who have stopped the jabs explain a sudden return of hunger.
"I experienced a switch flipping and you're instantly starving," recalled a patient.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Survey data show that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Use is higher among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and lasting health benefits relies on ongoing lifestyle changes.
