New research reveals that patients who discontinue new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who end traditional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a major health publication demonstrates that while obese individuals can lose a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the mass is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users buying such medications should be informed of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a reversion to original weight in about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team point out that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a slower weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the amplified rebound.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal might result in the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities advise the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, given the high risk of weight regain, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
People who have discontinued the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It was like a trigger activating and I was suddenly starving," said a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Figures indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while these medications are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss relies on combined behavioural changes.
