A recent study suggests that individuals who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a major health publication points out that while obese individuals often shed about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals purchasing these drugs should be cognizant of the potential of rapid weight regain when the therapy concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a reversion to starting weight in about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually experience a less rapid weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Experts believe the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the heightened weight return.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "underscore the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have stopped the medication report a intense return of hunger.
"It felt as if something activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
This challenge is worsened if users have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Use is greater among females than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and long-term success likely depends on integrated lifestyle support.
