A recent study suggests that individuals who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals often shed a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People buying these medications must be informed of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the medication ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a return to starting mass within about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Scientists point out that individuals who shed pounds through dieting generally experience a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Doctors propose the mode of action of the jabs accounts for the amplified regain.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "highlight the persistent character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs describe a sudden return of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger activating and you become ravenous," recalled one woman.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not established permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Growing Use
Recent estimates indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and long-term success likely depends on ongoing lifestyle changes.
