A recent study suggests that patients who stop using popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover reduced body mass far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a major health publication shows that while obese people frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users using such medications need to be cognizant of the risk of rapid weight regain when the therapy concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically have a more gradual weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Doctors believe the way of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "emphasize the long-term character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Accounts
Users who have come off the jabs report a sudden return of cravings.
"I experienced a switch activating and you become extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not established permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss relies on combined behavioural changes.
