New research indicates that people who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover lost weight much more quickly than those who end conventional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a leading health publication shows that while overweight people can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People purchasing such drugs must be aware of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to pre-treatment mass within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists note that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise generally experience a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Experts believe the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the amplified regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment is often ongoing.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have stopped the medication explain a intense resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," described one woman.
This challenge is worsened if users have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing lifestyle changes.
