Users Coming Off Slimming Jabs Put On Weight Four Times Faster Than Those on Conventional Diets
Fresh analysis indicates that people who discontinue popular weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt conventional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a leading medical journal shows that while overweight individuals often shed a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals using such drugs must be aware of the danger of rapid weight regain when the medication is stopped," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a return to pre-treatment mass in about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
Researchers note that individuals who shed pounds through dieting typically experience a slower creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the amplified regain.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "highlight the chronic nature of obesity," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
People who have stopped the jabs report a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a trigger activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Survey data suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts emphasize that while these medications are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss relies on combined behavioural changes.
