New research reveals that people who stop using new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight far faster than those who halt traditional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while overweight individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the mass is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals buying these drugs must be cognizant of the potential of fast weight regain when the therapy concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Researchers note that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a more gradual creep back—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Doctors believe the mechanism of the injections accounts for the amplified regain.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "underscore the chronic character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the medication report a sudden return of hunger.
"It felt as if something activating and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled a patient.
The struggle is worsened if individuals have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success hinges on integrated lifestyle support.
