Fresh analysis indicates that patients who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover lost weight far faster than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight individuals often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People buying these medications need to be aware of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a reversion to original mass within about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
The team note that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically have a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Doctors believe the way of the jabs accounts for the amplified rebound.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the long-term nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs explain a sudden return of cravings.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and I was suddenly starving," recalled one woman.
This difficulty is compounded if users have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Survey data suggest that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts emphasize that while these medications are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss relies on combined lifestyle management.
