New research reveals that people who stop using popular weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional lifestyle regimens.
Published data in a major medical journal points out that while overweight individuals can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals using such medications should be aware of the danger of rapid weight regain when the medication concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a reversion to starting mass in about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically have a more gradual creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Doctors believe the mode of action of the drugs explains the amplified rebound.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement means hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have come off the medication report a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a switch activating and you become starving," recalled an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Survey data suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, experts caution that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated lifestyle support.
