A recent study reveals that patients who come off popular weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds far faster than those who end conventional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a leading health publication shows that while overweight people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users using these drugs need to be informed of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a return to starting weight within about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that people who lose weight through diet and exercise typically see a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Doctors propose the way of the jabs accounts for the heightened rebound.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication means appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "highlight the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the jabs report a intense return of cravings.
"It felt as if a switch flipping and you become extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Figures suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, experts caution that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and long-term success relies on integrated behavioural support.
