Fresh analysis reveals that people who discontinue popular weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while overweight individuals often shed a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users buying such medications need to be aware of the danger of fast weight regain when the therapy is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to original weight in about 18 months.
Comparing Therapies
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
The team note that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually have a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Experts propose the mechanism of the injections accounts for the accelerated rebound.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "emphasize the long-term character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Experiences
Users who have come off the jabs describe a powerful return of cravings.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and you become starving," described an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Survey data suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among women than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss relies on combined behavioural changes.
