Individuals Stopping Slimming Jabs Regain Pounds Far More Rapidly Than Those on Conventional Diets
New research suggests that patients who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a major medical journal shows that while overweight individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users using such treatments should be aware of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a return to pre-treatment weight in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The research, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team note that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally have a slower weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Experts suggest the mechanism of the injections explains the amplified rebound.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
The NHS suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
People who have discontinued the jabs describe a intense return of hunger.
"It was like something activating and I was suddenly starving," said an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates show that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Use is higher among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and long-term success hinges on combined behavioural management.