Fresh analysis suggests that individuals who come off new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals purchasing these treatments should be aware of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a reversion to original weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Scientists point out that people who lose weight through dieting typically experience a less rapid weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Experts believe the mode of action of the jabs accounts for the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this medication results in hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
The NHS advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, given the high risk of weight regain, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "underscore the chronic character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the medication explain a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and you become ravenous," described one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Use
Survey data show that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and long-term success hinges on integrated behavioural changes.
