New research suggests that individuals who come off popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who end traditional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People using these treatments need to be cognizant of the risk of quick weight regain when the therapy ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a return to original weight within about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that people who lose weight through dieting usually have a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Doctors believe the mode of action of the injections explains the heightened rebound.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment is often long-term.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the medication explain a powerful return of cravings.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," said one woman.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Use is higher among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and lasting health benefits hinges on combined lifestyle support.
