Fresh analysis suggests that individuals who stop using new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight far faster than those who stop conventional lifestyle regimens.
Published data in a major health publication shows that while overweight individuals often shed about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users purchasing such treatments must be cognizant of the risk of quick weight regain when the treatment ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a reversion to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
The team note that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally experience a slower weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Doctors believe the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the amplified regain.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "underscore the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs explain a intense return of appetite.
"I experienced a switch that goes on and you're instantly ravenous," described one woman.
This challenge is worsened if patients have not established lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates show that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts stress that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success relies on integrated lifestyle management.
