A recent study indicates that people who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People buying such medications must be informed of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a return to original mass within about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Researchers note that people who shed pounds through dieting generally experience a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Experts propose the mechanism of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than normal might result in the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the long-term character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Users who have stopped the medication explain a sudden return of hunger.
"It felt as if something activating and you become starving," recalled one woman.
This challenge is worsened if patients have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Figures indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers caution that while these medications are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated lifestyle changes.
