Patients Stopping Anti-Obesity Jabs Put On Weight Four Times Faster Compared to People Using Diet and Exercise

Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who come off new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds far faster than those who halt traditional diet and exercise programs.

Findings released in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.

"Individuals buying these medications should be informed of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.

That rate of regain means a return to original weight within about 18 months.

Weighing Treatments

The study, which examined dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.

The team note that people who lose weight through dieting usually see a slower creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.

Explaining the Quick Rebound

Experts suggest the mechanism of the injections accounts for the heightened weight return.

These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.

"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.

"Withdrawal of this medication leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating far more likely."

A Lifelong Disease?

The NHS recommend the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.

Many experts say that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered ongoing.

This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.

Patient Experiences

Users who have come off the medication describe a powerful return of hunger.

"It was like a switch flipping and you become ravenous," said a patient.

The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.

Growing Adoption

Figures show that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.

• Use is greater among females than males.
• The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
• Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.

In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss relies on combined behavioural support.