A recent study indicates that patients who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover shed pounds far faster than those who stop conventional lifestyle regimens.
Published data in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight people often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals purchasing such medications must be cognizant of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the medication ends," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a return to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that people who lose weight through diet and exercise typically have a less rapid weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Doctors believe the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the amplified rebound.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication means hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
People who have come off the jabs report a intense return of cravings.
"It was like a trigger flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said a patient.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not established permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers stress that while these medications are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss relies on combined lifestyle changes.
