Fresh analysis suggests that people who stop using new weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a major medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users purchasing such medications need to be aware of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the medication ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a reversion to original mass in about 18 months.
Analyzing Therapies
The study, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually have a slower creep back—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Experts believe the mechanism of the injections explains the amplified regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "underscore the persistent nature of obesity," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
People who have come off the medication describe a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a trigger activating and you become ravenous," said one woman.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not established lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Figures indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among women than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts stress that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on integrated lifestyle changes.
