New research reveals that people who come off popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a major health publication demonstrates that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People using such medications should be informed of the risk of quick weight regain when the medication ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a reversion to original mass within about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Scientists point out that individuals who shed pounds through dieting typically see a slower creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the injections accounts for the heightened weight return.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication means appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Experiences
People who have come off the jabs describe a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if something activating and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled an individual.
This challenge is worsened if users have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Survey data suggest that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Use is more common among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, experts emphasize that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing lifestyle support.
