A recent study suggests that individuals who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a prominent health publication shows that while overweight people can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals purchasing such treatments should be informed of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to starting mass in about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through dieting typically experience a slower creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to 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 dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities advise the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the treatment is often ongoing.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "emphasize the persistent character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs report a sudden return of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly starving," said one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Figures indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Use is greater among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts stress that while the jabs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing lifestyle changes.
