New research reveals that individuals who stop using popular weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who end traditional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a leading medical journal shows that while obese people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users purchasing such drugs should be informed of the potential of fast weight regain when the medication concludes," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a reversion to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Comparing Approaches
The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally see a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the heightened rebound.
The injections copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment is often long-term.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "emphasize the chronic nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs report a intense return of appetite.
"I experienced a switch that goes on and you're instantly starving," said one woman.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Survey data suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined lifestyle support.
