New research reveals that people who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a prominent health publication shows that while obese individuals often shed about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users using such treatments need to be informed of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a return to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The analysis, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Researchers point out that people who lose weight through diet and exercise usually experience a slower weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Experts suggest the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, given the likelihood of relapse, the therapy is often life-long.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
People who have come off the medication explain a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a switch flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled a patient.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not established permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Survey data indicate that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among women than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while these medications are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and long-term success hinges on ongoing behavioural changes.
