New research indicates that people who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a major medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users buying such drugs should be aware of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a reversion to starting mass in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team note that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally experience a slower weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Experts propose the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the treatment is often ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "highlight the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Users who have stopped the jabs report a intense return of cravings.
"I experienced something that goes on and you become ravenous," described one woman.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not established lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts caution that while these medications are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and lasting health benefits relies on ongoing lifestyle support.
