A recent study suggests that people who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain reduced body mass far faster than those who stop conventional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a major medical journal points out that while obese people often shed about a fifth of their total mass 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 weight regain when the treatment ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a return to original mass within about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting usually see a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Experts suggest the way of the injections explains the heightened rebound.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this medication results in appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "emphasize the chronic character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have discontinued the medication explain a powerful return of hunger.
"It was like a switch activating and I was suddenly starving," said one woman.
This difficulty is worsened if patients have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Survey data show that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers caution that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success relies on combined lifestyle changes.
