Fresh analysis indicates that patients who discontinue popular weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover reduced body mass far faster than those who end conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal shows that while overweight individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals buying such medications must be informed of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a return to pre-treatment mass in about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which examined 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists note that people who shed pounds through dieting usually have a slower creep back—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Experts believe the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the amplified weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than normal may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication means appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, due to the high risk of relapse, the therapy is often ongoing.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "underscore the chronic character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
People who have come off the jabs report a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates show that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Use is higher among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while these medications are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits relies on integrated behavioural management.
