New research reveals that patients who stop using new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds far faster than those who stop traditional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a major health publication demonstrates that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People purchasing these medications need to be informed of the potential of fast weight regain when the medication ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a return to original weight in about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The study, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally have a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Experts believe the mechanism of the drugs explains the amplified regain.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "highlight the chronic character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the jabs explain a intense resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if a switch flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," described a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Use is more common among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts caution that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural support.
