Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a prominent medical journal points out that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users purchasing such treatments must be informed of the risk of quick weight regain when the treatment ends," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally have a more gradual creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Doctors propose the mechanism of the injections accounts for the heightened regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the medication report a intense resurgence of cravings.
"It was like something flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," described an individual.
The struggle is worsened if users have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Use is higher among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers caution that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and long-term success hinges on integrated behavioural management.
