New research suggests that people who come off popular weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who end conventional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a leading medical journal shows that while obese people often shed about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users using these medications need to be informed of the potential of fast weight regain when the treatment is stopped," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a reversion to original weight in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers note that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally see a less rapid creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this medication means hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the therapy is often life-long.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "highlight the chronic nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
Users who have discontinued the medication explain a intense resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled an individual.
The struggle is compounded if users have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Survey data indicate that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Use is higher among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts caution that while the jabs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and long-term success relies on ongoing behavioural management.
