Fresh analysis reveals that people who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover reduced body mass far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a major medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals often shed about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users buying these treatments must be aware of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a reversion to starting weight in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically see a slower weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Doctors believe the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the amplified weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the treatment is often life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "underscore the chronic character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
People who have come off the medication describe a sudden return of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and you become ravenous," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if users have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Survey data suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Use is greater among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while these medications are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success likely depends on combined behavioural changes.
