Fresh analysis reveals that patients who discontinue new slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a leading health publication shows that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People purchasing such treatments need to be informed of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who lose weight through dieting typically experience a slower creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the way of the drugs accounts for the accelerated rebound.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this medication leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Condition?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, due to the high risk of relapse, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
People who have come off the medication explain a sudden return of hunger.
"It was like a trigger activating and I was suddenly starving," described a patient.
The struggle is worsened if individuals have not established lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Figures suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, experts stress that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on combined behavioural support.
