Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who come off popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain reduced body mass far faster than those who end conventional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a major medical journal points out that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users using these medications should be cognizant of the risk of quick weight regain when the medication concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a reversion to starting mass in about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
The team note that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Experts suggest the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities recommend the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "underscore the chronic nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Experiences
People who have come off the jabs report a sudden return of appetite.
"It was like a switch flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," described one woman.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Survey data suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and lasting health benefits relies on integrated lifestyle changes.
