New research reveals that people who come off new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight far faster than those who halt traditional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a major health publication shows that while obese people frequently drop substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users buying these drugs must be aware of the risk of fast weight regain when the treatment concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a return to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with other pills.
The team emphasize that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually see a slower creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Doctors propose the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, given the high risk of weight regain, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "emphasize the chronic nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
Users who have stopped the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if something activating and you're instantly ravenous," said a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if users have not established permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Figures indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and long-term success relies on combined behavioural management.
