Patients Stopping Slimming Jabs Put On Weight Far More Rapidly Than Those on Conventional Diets
New research suggests that patients who stop using new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover shed pounds much more quickly than those who end conventional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users using such medications must be informed of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the medication ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to original weight in about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically have a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Doctors propose the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than normal might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication means appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Users who have discontinued the medication explain a sudden return of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and you become starving," described an individual.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Figures indicate that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians caution that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and long-term success likely depends on combined behavioural management.
