A recent study suggests that people who stop using new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt traditional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a prominent health publication points out that while overweight individuals often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People buying these medications need to be aware of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the medication ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a return to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with other pills.
Scientists emphasize that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually have a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Experts believe the way of the injections accounts for the heightened weight return.
The injections copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the treatment is often long-term.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "highlight the chronic character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the medication explain a intense resurgence of cravings.
"It was like something flipping and you become extremely hungry," said one woman.
This challenge is worsened if patients have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates show that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Use is greater among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while the jabs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated lifestyle support.
