New research suggests that people who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover reduced body mass far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal shows that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Users buying these treatments should be cognizant of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a return to starting mass within about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The study, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists note that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually experience a more gradual weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the drugs explains the heightened regain.
The injections copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "underscore the persistent character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Accounts
People who have stopped the medication explain a powerful return of hunger.
"I experienced a switch flipping and you become starving," recalled a patient.
The struggle is compounded if users have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Growing Use
Recent estimates suggest that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians caution that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and long-term success hinges on combined lifestyle management.
