A recent study reveals that individuals who stop using popular 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 regimens.
Findings released in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese people often shed about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals using such medications need to be cognizant of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically see a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Doctors propose the mode of action of the drugs explains the heightened weight return.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this medication leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Condition?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have stopped the medication describe a powerful return of hunger.
"It felt as if something flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," described an individual.
The struggle is worsened if users have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Use
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss relies on integrated behavioural management.
