Fresh analysis suggests that patients who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a prominent health publication shows that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals buying such medications must be aware of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to original mass in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through diet and exercise typically see a slower weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the way of the drugs accounts for the heightened rebound.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "highlight the persistent nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
People who have stopped the jabs explain a sudden return of appetite.
"It felt as if something activating and you become extremely hungry," recalled one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates show that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success likely depends on ongoing behavioural changes.
