Fresh analysis reveals that people who come off new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who halt conventional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a leading health publication demonstrates that while overweight individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals buying such treatments need to be aware of the potential of fast weight regain when the treatment is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a reversion to original mass in about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Researchers note that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise generally see a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Experts suggest the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated rebound.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities advise the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, given the likelihood of relapse, the therapy is often ongoing.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "highlight the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Users who have discontinued the medication explain a intense return of appetite.
"It was like something that goes on and you become extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Use
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing lifestyle support.
