A recent study suggests that people who stop using new weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt traditional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a major health publication points out that while overweight individuals can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals purchasing these medications need to be aware of the risk of rapid weight regain when the therapy ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The analysis, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally see a less rapid creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Experts suggest the mode of action of the injections explains the accelerated regain.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
The NHS recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "highlight the persistent character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Users who have discontinued the jabs report a powerful return of hunger.
"I experienced something flipping and I was suddenly starving," said a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Figures indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss relies on combined behavioural support.
