A recent study indicates that individuals who discontinue blockbuster weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover lost weight far faster than those who halt traditional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a leading health publication demonstrates that while obese people frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users using such drugs need to be informed of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a return to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically experience a more gradual weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Doctors propose the mode of action of the jabs explains the heightened regain.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS recommend the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the chronic character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Users who have come off the jabs explain a powerful return of hunger.
"It was like a trigger flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," described one woman.
This difficulty is compounded if patients have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Figures indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts caution that while the jabs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and lasting health benefits relies on combined behavioural changes.
