New research reveals that patients who discontinue blockbuster slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users purchasing such treatments must be cognizant of the potential of rapid weight regain when the therapy is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a return to starting weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally see a slower weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the drugs explains the amplified weight return.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the high risk of relapse, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "underscore the chronic nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs report a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a switch activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," described a patient.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and long-term success likely depends on combined behavioural support.
