New research suggests that patients who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal points out that while overweight individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals buying such medications need to be cognizant of the potential of rapid weight regain when the treatment concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a return to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting typically see a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Experts believe the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the accelerated regain.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS suggest the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
People who have come off the medication report a intense return of cravings.
"It was like something activating and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled an individual.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Survey data suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Use is more common among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while these medications are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss relies on combined behavioural support.
