New research indicates that people who discontinue popular weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt traditional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight individuals can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users using these drugs must be cognizant of the potential of fast weight regain when the treatment is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a return to original weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which examined dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
The team emphasize that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually have a less rapid creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Experts suggest the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this medication leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities advise the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "highlight the chronic character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Accounts
Users who have discontinued the jabs report a intense return of cravings.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Survey data show that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Use is more common among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and long-term success likely depends on integrated behavioural changes.
