New research reveals that individuals who stop using popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal points out that while overweight people often shed a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying such drugs must be cognizant of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to original weight in about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Researchers point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting typically see a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Experts suggest the way of the jabs is key to understanding the amplified weight return.
These medications copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities suggest the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
People who have stopped the medication report a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a switch activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," described a patient.
The struggle is worsened if users have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Use
Survey data show that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and long-term success relies on combined lifestyle support.