A recent study indicates that individuals who come off new weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a major medical journal shows that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users buying such medications must be cognizant of the risk of rapid weight regain when the therapy concludes," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a return to original mass in about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a less rapid creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the jabs explains the heightened regain.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this medication means appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Issue?
The NHS suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "highlight the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs describe a intense resurgence of hunger.
"It was like a trigger activating and you become ravenous," said a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not established lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Significant Use
Figures suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Use is greater among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts stress that while these medications are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and long-term success likely depends on integrated behavioural management.
