New research indicates that people who come off new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a major medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users using these treatments need to be aware of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a return to starting mass in about 18 months.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of these new drugs with other pills.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting generally experience a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Experts suggest the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the amplified weight return.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels 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 lessen sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the therapy is often life-long.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "highlight the persistent nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
People who have discontinued the medication explain a sudden return of cravings.
"It was like a trigger activating and you become ravenous," recalled an individual.
This challenge is worsened if patients have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing behavioural management.
