Users Stopping Anti-Obesity Injections Put On Weight at a Quadrupled Rate Than Those on Conventional Diets

New research suggests that patients who stop using blockbuster slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.

Findings released in a prominent medical journal shows that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.

"Users buying these drugs must be aware of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.

Such speed of recovery means a return to starting weight in about a year and a half.

Weighing Treatments

The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.

Researchers note that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a slower weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.

The Reason for the Quick Rebound

Nutrition scientists suggest the mode of action of the jabs explains the amplified regain.

GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.

"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.

"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."

A Chronic Issue?

The NHS advise the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.

Professionals contend that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment is often ongoing.

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

User Experiences

Individuals who have discontinued the medication describe a powerful resurgence of appetite.

"It was like a trigger that goes on and you're instantly ravenous," described one woman.

This challenge is exacerbated if users have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.

Significant Use

Recent estimates suggest that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.

• Adoption is greater among females compared to men.
• The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
• Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.

In conclusion, experts emphasize that while these medications are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss relies on combined lifestyle management.