A recent study indicates that patients who discontinue blockbuster weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover lost weight far faster than those who stop conventional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal points out that while overweight individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals using these medications must be informed of the potential of quick weight regain when the therapy is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a return to original weight in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The research, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of these new drugs with older methods.
The team point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually see a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Doctors believe the way of the drugs explains the heightened rebound.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS suggest the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy is often ongoing.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "highlight the chronic character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
People who have stopped the medication explain a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and you become ravenous," described an individual.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and long-term success relies on ongoing lifestyle support.
