Users Stopping Slimming Jabs Gain Back Pounds Far More Rapidly Compared to People Using Diet and Exercise

A recent study indicates that people who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover lost weight much more quickly than those who halt traditional lifestyle plans.

Research printed in a prominent health publication shows that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the weight is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.

"Users buying these medications must be aware of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.

Such speed of recovery means a reversion to original weight in about a year and a half.

Comparing Approaches

The research, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.

Scientists point out that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually see a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.

The Reason for the Fast Regain

Experts propose the way of the drugs explains the heightened regain.

GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.

"Artificially providing 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 could diminish responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.

"Discontinuation of this medication leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."

A Lifelong Disease?

Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.

A number of clinicians contend that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.

This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "emphasize the chronic nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.

Patient Testimonies

People who have come off the medication report a powerful return of cravings.

"It was like something that goes on and you become extremely hungry," described a patient.

This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not established permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.

Widespread Use

Figures show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.

• Adoption is more common among females than males.
• The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
• A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.

Ultimately, researchers stress that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined lifestyle management.