New research indicates that patients who stop using popular weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People purchasing these medications need to be cognizant of the risk of quick weight regain when the medication concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a reversion to original mass in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically see a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Doctors believe the mechanism of the injections explains the heightened regain.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than normal might result in the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Issue?
The NHS advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "highlight the persistent character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the jabs report a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced a switch activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled one woman.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not established permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Figures show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and long-term success likely depends on combined behavioural support.
