Fresh analysis indicates that individuals who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt traditional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a leading medical journal points out that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals using such medications should be aware of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a return to pre-treatment weight within about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally experience a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Doctors suggest the way of the jabs accounts for the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "emphasize the persistent nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
People who have stopped the medication explain a sudden return of appetite.
"I experienced something that goes on and you become extremely hungry," said an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Figures show that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while these medications are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss hinges on combined behavioural changes.
