Fresh analysis suggests that people who discontinue new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a leading medical journal points out that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals using these drugs need to be informed of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a return to starting weight within about one and a half years.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically have a less rapid creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the jabs explains the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Condition?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, given the likelihood of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the long-term character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Survey data show that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and lasting health benefits hinges on combined lifestyle changes.
