New research suggests that people who come off blockbuster weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese individuals often shed a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals using these drugs must be aware of the risk of fast weight regain when the therapy concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a reversion to starting mass within about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which reviewed dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team point out that people who shed pounds through dieting typically experience a more gradual creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Experts believe the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
These medications copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels far above than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment is often long-term.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "highlight the long-term nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the medication describe a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced something activating and you're instantly ravenous," described one woman.
This challenge is compounded if users have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Figures suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Use is higher among women than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts caution that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and lasting health benefits relies on integrated lifestyle management.
