A recent study reveals that people who stop using popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal points out that while overweight people frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People using such treatments should be aware of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a return to original weight in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The research, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Researchers note that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually see a slower creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Experts suggest the way of the injections accounts for the heightened weight return.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS recommend the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy is often life-long.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have come off the jabs describe a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced something that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," described a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if users have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Use
Figures indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts stress that while the jabs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and long-term success relies on integrated lifestyle changes.
