New research indicates that patients who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a major medical journal points out that while overweight people often shed a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People buying these treatments should be aware of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a reversion to original mass in about 18 months.
Comparing Therapies
The study, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers note that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally see a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the heightened regain.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS recommend the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy is often life-long.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
People who have stopped the jabs report a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if something that goes on and you become starving," described a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if patients have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while these medications are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success hinges on ongoing behavioural management.
