New research indicates that patients who stop using new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight far faster than those who stop traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a prominent medical journal points out that while overweight individuals often shed about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals buying such medications should be cognizant of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a reversion to starting mass in about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team note that people who shed pounds through dieting typically have a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Experts believe the mechanism of the jabs explains the amplified weight return.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities advise the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "underscore the long-term nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have stopped the medication explain a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a trigger activating and I was suddenly starving," described an individual.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Significant Use
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion 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 long-term success likely depends on ongoing behavioural management.
