New research suggests that people who come off new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass far faster than those who halt traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a leading health publication points out that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People using such medications should be aware of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a return to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that people who lose weight through diet and exercise typically experience a less rapid weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Experts propose the way of the injections explains the amplified rebound.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
People who have stopped the medication describe a intense return of appetite.
"It felt as if something that goes on and you're instantly starving," described a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if patients have not established permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Survey data show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts stress that while the jabs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and long-term success likely depends on integrated lifestyle support.
