New research reveals that people who stop using new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight far faster than those who stop conventional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a major medical journal points out that while overweight individuals often shed a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People buying these drugs should be informed of the risk of quick weight regain when the treatment ends," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a return to starting weight within about one and a half years.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
The team note that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually see a less rapid weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the amplified weight return.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this medication leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the chronic nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," described a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success relies on integrated lifestyle management.
