New research reveals that individuals who stop using popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a major health publication shows that while overweight people can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals purchasing such medications need to be informed of the potential of quick weight regain when the treatment is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a return to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally see a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the way of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement means hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS recommend the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "highlight the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
People who have discontinued the medication describe a powerful return of hunger.
"It felt as if something flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," described one woman.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not established lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Figures suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among females than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians caution that while the jabs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and long-term success likely depends on integrated lifestyle management.
