New research suggests that individuals who discontinue new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a prominent health publication shows that while overweight individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals purchasing such medications must be cognizant of the danger of rapid weight regain when the medication is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a return to starting mass in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
Researchers note that individuals who lose weight through dieting typically experience a less rapid weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mode of action of the injections explains the accelerated rebound.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment is often life-long.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "highlight the chronic character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Testimonies
People who have come off the medication describe a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced something activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
The struggle is worsened if individuals have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Interest
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural management.
