New research reveals that individuals who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt traditional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals purchasing such drugs should be aware of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a return to original weight in about 18 months.
Comparing Therapies
The study, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team note that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally have a slower weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Doctors propose the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than normal might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, given the likelihood of relapse, the therapy is often ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Users who have come off the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It was like something flipping and you're instantly starving," described an individual.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while the jabs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and lasting health benefits likely depends on combined behavioural management.
