Fresh analysis reveals that patients who come off blockbuster weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal points out that while overweight individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users using such medications must be informed of the potential of quick weight regain when the treatment is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a return to original mass in about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a more gradual weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Rapid Rebound
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the injections explains the amplified weight return.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the therapy is often ongoing.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "underscore the chronic character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Accounts
Users who have come off the medication report a intense return of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Use
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians emphasize that while these medications are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success likely depends on ongoing behavioural management.
