New research reveals that people who discontinue popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover reduced body mass far faster than those who stop traditional lifestyle regimens.
Published data in a prominent health publication shows that while overweight people can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People buying these drugs need to be aware of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to original mass in about 18 months.
Comparing Therapies
The study, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally see a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the injections accounts for the accelerated regain.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment is often long-term.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "emphasize the long-term nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
Users who have discontinued the jabs report a intense return of cravings.
"It felt as if something flipping and you become starving," said one woman.
The struggle is worsened if users have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Widespread Use
Figures indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Use is higher among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while these medications are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined behavioural support.
