New research suggests that people who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight far faster than those who halt conventional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a major health publication shows that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People using these medications need to be informed of the danger of fast weight regain when the treatment is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a return to pre-treatment mass in about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
The team point out that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a slower creep back—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Experts propose the mechanism of the injections explains the amplified rebound.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than normal might result in the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS advise the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment is often ongoing.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "highlight the chronic character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the medication describe a intense return of cravings.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and you become starving," said an individual.
This challenge is compounded if users have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among females than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success likely depends on ongoing lifestyle changes.
