Fresh analysis reveals that people who discontinue popular weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users buying these treatments must be aware of the danger of fast weight regain when the medication concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically experience a less rapid weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Experts believe the mode of action of the jabs accounts for the accelerated regain.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS suggest the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment is often life-long.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "emphasize the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
People who have come off the medication report a intense return of cravings.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and you're instantly ravenous," said one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Figures indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Use is higher among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and lasting health benefits likely depends on combined behavioural management.
