A recent study reveals that individuals who discontinue new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds far faster than those who halt traditional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a prominent medical journal points out that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the mass is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals purchasing these treatments must be cognizant of the risk of rapid weight regain when the medication ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a reversion to pre-treatment mass within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The research, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers note that people who shed pounds through dieting generally experience a more gradual creep back—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Experts propose the way of the jabs explains the accelerated regain.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the medication describe a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced something flipping and you become extremely hungry," described an individual.
The struggle is compounded if users have not established permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Survey data show that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Use is higher among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians stress that while these medications are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing behavioural management.
