New research suggests that individuals who come off new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover reduced body mass far faster than those who stop conventional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a leading health publication points out that while obese individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users buying such treatments need to be informed of the risk of fast weight regain when the therapy ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a reversion to original weight in about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists note that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally experience a less rapid creep back—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the injections explains the heightened regain.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "underscore the persistent nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have stopped the medication describe a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced something activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Recent estimates suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success likely depends on combined behavioural management.