New research reveals that people who discontinue new weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover lost weight much more quickly than those who halt conventional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while overweight individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People buying these drugs need to be informed of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Comparing Therapies
The analysis, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that people who lose weight through diet and exercise usually experience a slower weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Experts believe the way of the injections is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS recommend the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy is often ongoing.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "underscore the chronic nature of obesity," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have discontinued the jabs report a sudden return of hunger.
"It was like a switch flipping and you're instantly starving," recalled an individual.
The struggle is compounded if users have not established permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Use
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is higher among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts stress that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success likely depends on combined lifestyle management.
