New research reveals that patients who stop using new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover reduced body mass far faster than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a leading health publication demonstrates that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users using these medications should be informed of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a return to starting weight in about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
The team note that people who lose weight through diet and exercise usually have a more gradual weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Nutrition scientists believe the way of the injections accounts for the amplified regain.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "underscore the chronic character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs describe a powerful return of appetite.
"It was like a trigger activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," described an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Survey data show that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing lifestyle changes.
