New research suggests that patients who stop using popular weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a leading medical journal shows that while obese people often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users purchasing these drugs need to be aware of the danger of quick weight regain when the medication concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a reversion to original mass in about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting usually have a less rapid creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Doctors believe the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the amplified weight return.
These medications copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication means appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "underscore the long-term nature of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Users who have stopped the jabs report a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and you become ravenous," said an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not established permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Survey data suggest that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Use is greater among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing behavioural support.
