Individuals Stopping Anti-Obesity Jabs Gain Back Pounds Four Times Faster Compared to Those on Conventional Diets
Fresh analysis suggests that people who stop using popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover shed pounds far faster than those who end conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a major health publication points out that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying such drugs need to be aware of the danger of rapid weight regain when the medication is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a return to starting weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the results of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists point out that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically experience a less rapid weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Doctors believe the mode of action of the jabs explains the heightened regain.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this medication means hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "highlight the chronic nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have come off the jabs explain a intense return of appetite.
"I experienced a switch activating and you become starving," described an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Use
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss relies on integrated lifestyle management.
