Patients Stopping Slimming Injections Put On Weight at a Quadrupled Rate Than Dieters

New research reveals that people who come off blockbuster slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass far faster than those who end conventional lifestyle regimens.

Research printed in a major health publication points out that while obese individuals often shed about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.

"Users purchasing these medications should be informed of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.

That rate of regain suggests a return to pre-treatment mass within about one and a half years.

Analyzing Therapies

The analysis, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.

Scientists note that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually see a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.

The Reason for the Rapid Rebound

Experts propose the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the accelerated regain.

The injections copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.

"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than normal might result in the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.

"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."

An Ongoing Disease?

Health authorities suggest the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.

A number of clinicians say that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.

This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "underscore the chronic nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.

User Experiences

Individuals who have stopped the medication explain a powerful return of hunger.

"It felt as if something flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled one woman.

This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.

Significant Adoption

Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.

• Adoption is more common among women compared to males.
• The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
• A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.

Finally, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural changes.