Fresh analysis suggests that people who stop using popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover lost weight much more quickly than those who halt conventional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals using these medications need to be aware of the risk of quick weight regain when the medication concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to original mass in about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The analysis, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists emphasize that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually see a more gradual creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the way of the drugs is key to understanding the amplified rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this medication leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "emphasize the persistent nature of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
People who have come off the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a trigger activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said one woman.
This difficulty is worsened if users have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts caution that while these medications are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success likely depends on integrated behavioural changes.
