Fresh analysis suggests that patients who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who end conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while overweight individuals often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People buying such medications must be informed of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a return to original mass in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Therapies
The research, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team emphasize that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally have a less rapid creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Experts propose the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the amplified regain.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than normal may cause the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this medication means hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
Health authorities advise the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "underscore the long-term nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Experiences
People who have stopped the medication report a sudden return of appetite.
"It was like a trigger flipping and you're instantly starving," said a patient.
The struggle is worsened if users have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Figures show that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Use is higher among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers caution that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss relies on combined lifestyle support.
