New research reveals that people who stop using popular weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a major medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users using such treatments should be aware of the risk of rapid weight regain when the treatment ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a return to original mass in about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
The team point out that people who lose weight through diet and exercise typically see a slower weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Doctors propose the mechanism of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated rebound.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this medication results in appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the therapy is often ongoing.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "highlight the long-term nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Testimonies
Users who have come off the medication explain a intense return of hunger.
"It was like something flipping and you become ravenous," said an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Use is greater among females than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss hinges on integrated behavioural changes.
