A recent study indicates that people who discontinue new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a major medical journal points out that while obese individuals often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals purchasing these medications need to be cognizant of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a return to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The research, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers note that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually experience a more gradual weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, given the likelihood of relapse, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if users have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Use
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts stress that while these medications are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss hinges on combined lifestyle management.
