A recent study indicates that people who stop using new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover lost weight far faster than those who stop traditional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a major medical journal points out that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People buying these medications need to be cognizant of the potential of rapid weight regain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a return to starting mass within about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
The team point out that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally see a more gradual creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Experts propose the mechanism of the drugs explains the accelerated regain.
The injections copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, given the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Users who have discontinued the medication describe a powerful return of hunger.
"It was like a trigger that goes on and you become ravenous," said an individual.
The struggle is worsened if users have not established permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Survey data show that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts stress that while these medications are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and long-term success relies on integrated lifestyle management.
