Users Discontinuing Slimming Injections Gain Back Weight Four Times Faster Compared to Those on Conventional Diets
New research suggests that people who discontinue new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds far faster than those who end traditional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while overweight individuals often shed about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users using these drugs must be cognizant of the risk of fast weight regain when the treatment concludes," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a return to starting mass in about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists point out that people who shed pounds through dieting generally see a less rapid creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Doctors propose the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated rebound.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating far more likely."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS suggest the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, given the high risk of weight regain, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the long-term character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Users who have discontinued the medication report a sudden return of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch activating and I was suddenly starving," described one woman.
The struggle is compounded if users have not established lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Use
Figures show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and lasting health benefits relies on ongoing behavioural management.
