Fresh analysis suggests that individuals who come off popular weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal points out that while obese individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users buying such drugs should be cognizant of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a reversion to pre-treatment mass within about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that people who lose weight through dieting typically experience a slower creep back—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Experts believe the mechanism of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities advise the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the therapy is often ongoing.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "underscore the persistent character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Users who have come off the medication report a sudden return of cravings.
"It felt as if something that goes on and you become starving," recalled one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Figures show that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Use is greater among women than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while the jabs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss hinges on combined behavioural changes.
