New research reveals that patients who come off new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a major health publication demonstrates that while overweight people often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People purchasing such treatments need to be cognizant of the danger of quick weight regain when the medication is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a return to original weight within about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with other pills.
The team note that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a slower weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Nutrition scientists believe the way of the injections is key to understanding the amplified regain.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this medication means appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities advise the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, given the high risk of weight regain, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
People who have come off the medication explain a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a switch flipping and you become extremely hungry," described one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Significant Use
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and long-term success likely depends on integrated behavioural changes.
