Individuals Stopping Slimming Jabs Put On Pounds Four Times Faster Compared to Those on Conventional Diets

New research reveals that people who stop using popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.

Published data in a major medical journal points out that while overweight individuals can lose a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.

"Individuals using such medications must be aware of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.

Such speed of recovery implies a return to original mass within about a year and a half.

Comparing Treatments

The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.

Scientists point out that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally have a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.

The Reason for the Fast Regain

Experts propose the way of the injections accounts for the amplified regain.

These medications mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.

"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.

"Discontinuation of this medication means hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."

A Chronic Disease?

The NHS suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.

Professionals say that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy is often life-long.

This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "underscore the long-term character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.

Patient Experiences

Users who have come off the jabs describe a intense return of hunger.

"It was like a trigger activating and I was suddenly ravenous," said one woman.

The struggle is compounded if individuals have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.

Growing Adoption

Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.

• Use is higher among women than males.
• The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
• A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.

In conclusion, researchers caution that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss relies on integrated behavioural support.