Fresh analysis reveals that people who stop using popular weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People buying these drugs should be cognizant of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a return to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The research, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Scientists emphasize that people who lose weight through diet and exercise typically experience a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Doctors propose the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the amplified rebound.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal might result in the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "emphasize the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Users who have stopped the jabs explain a intense resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced something that goes on and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is worsened if users have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Recent estimates show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Use is higher among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss hinges on integrated behavioural support.
