New research indicates that people who come off popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop conventional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a leading medical journal shows that while overweight individuals can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals purchasing such drugs need to be informed of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to original mass within about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers note that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise usually have a less rapid creep back—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Experts believe the mode of action of the drugs explains the amplified rebound.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, given the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "emphasize the long-term character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
Users who have come off the medication report a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a switch flipping and you become extremely hungry," said a patient.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Use is higher among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts caution that while these medications are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on combined lifestyle changes.
