Fresh analysis reveals that people who discontinue blockbuster slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a major health publication demonstrates that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals using these drugs need to be informed of the danger of quick weight regain when the medication is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a return to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally experience a more gradual creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Experts suggest the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the heightened weight return.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "highlight the chronic character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
People who have stopped the medication describe a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"It was like something activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled one woman.
This difficulty is compounded if patients have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Use is more common among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts stress that while these medications are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing behavioural management.
