Fresh analysis indicates that patients who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain reduced body mass far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a leading medical journal shows that while overweight individuals can lose about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users purchasing these medications need to be informed of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that people who lose weight through dieting generally have a less rapid creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated rebound.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "underscore the persistent character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
People who have come off the medication report a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and you become starving," described a patient.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts caution that while the jabs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and long-term success relies on combined behavioural management.
