A recent study indicates that patients who come off popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a prominent health publication shows that while obese people often shed a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People buying such drugs need to be informed of the potential of quick weight regain when the medication ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a reversion to starting mass in about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally experience a more gradual creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Experts believe the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the amplified regain.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "highlight the chronic character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Users who have come off the medication describe a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a switch activating and you're instantly ravenous," described a patient.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Survey data suggest that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts emphasize that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing behavioural support.
