Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who come off blockbuster weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight people often shed a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users purchasing such treatments need to be informed of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication ends," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a return to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team emphasize that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically experience a slower creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Doctors propose the way of the injections accounts for the amplified weight return.
The injections copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this medication leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the persistent nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the medication describe a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It was like something flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," said one woman.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not established lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Growing Use
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, experts stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on combined lifestyle support.
