A recent study reveals that individuals who stop using popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a leading medical journal shows that while obese people often shed a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users purchasing these treatments should be informed of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a reversion to pre-treatment mass in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through dieting generally have a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the heightened weight return.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the chronic nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Users who have stopped the jabs describe a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if something flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," described one woman.
The struggle is compounded if patients have not established permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Interest
Recent estimates suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Use is greater among females than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts caution that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing lifestyle changes.
