A recent study suggests that people who discontinue popular weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight far faster than those who end conventional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a major medical journal points out that while overweight people often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People using such medications should be informed of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a return to pre-treatment weight within about 18 months.
Analyzing Therapies
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
The team note that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise generally see a more gradual weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Doctors believe the way of the drugs explains the accelerated rebound.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy is often ongoing.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
Users who have discontinued the medication explain a intense resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
The struggle is worsened if users have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Figures suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural changes.
