Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who discontinue new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a major health publication shows that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals purchasing these treatments must be cognizant of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a reversion to original weight in about a year and a half.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise typically experience a less rapid creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Experts propose the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the accelerated weight return.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
The NHS suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the long-term character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Experiences
People who have stopped the medication explain a sudden return of hunger.
"It was like a switch that goes on and you become ravenous," described a patient.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, experts stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and lasting health benefits hinges on integrated behavioural changes.
