A recent study suggests that patients who come off new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain reduced body mass far faster than those who halt conventional lifestyle regimens.
Published data in a major health publication shows that while overweight people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People buying such treatments should be cognizant of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to original mass in about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists note that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically have a more gradual creep back—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the accelerated weight return.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment is often life-long.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "emphasize the persistent character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
People who have come off the medication explain a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced a switch that goes on and you're instantly ravenous," said one woman.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not established permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Figures suggest that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers stress that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing behavioural changes.
