Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover lost weight far faster than those who end conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal shows that while overweight individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People using such drugs need to be informed of the risk of quick weight regain when the therapy concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to original weight within about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The research, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team note that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically experience a less rapid creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Doctors propose the mode of action of the drugs explains the accelerated rebound.
These medications copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this medication leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "underscore the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have stopped the jabs describe a intense resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a switch activating and you're instantly ravenous," described one woman.
This challenge is compounded if users have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates suggest that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and long-term success relies on combined behavioural support.
