New research suggests that people who discontinue new weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover lost weight much more quickly than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a major health publication shows that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users purchasing these drugs need to be aware of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a reversion to starting weight in about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
The team note that individuals who lose weight through dieting typically see a less rapid weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Experts propose the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this medication leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy is often life-long.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "emphasize the long-term nature of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the jabs explain a sudden return of appetite.
"It was like a switch that goes on and I was suddenly starving," said a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Widespread Use
Survey data indicate that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Use is higher among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, experts emphasize that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined lifestyle support.
