New research reveals that patients who come off new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a leading medical journal points out that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People using such medications need to be informed of the danger of rapid weight regain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a reversion to original mass within about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers note that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally see a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Experts suggest the way of the jabs explains the heightened weight return.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than normal may cause the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, given the high risk of weight regain, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the persistent nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
People who have come off the jabs explain a powerful return of cravings.
"It was like a switch flipping and I was suddenly starving," said a patient.
This challenge is worsened if users have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Interest
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Use is higher among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts caution that while the jabs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and lasting health benefits relies on ongoing behavioural management.
