A recent study suggests that individuals who discontinue popular weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt traditional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight individuals can lose a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users buying such treatments must be cognizant of the risk of fast weight regain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a reversion to starting weight in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Researchers note that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically have a slower weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Experts suggest the mechanism of the injections explains the accelerated rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy is often ongoing.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "underscore the chronic character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
People who have stopped the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced something that goes on and you become starving," recalled a patient.
The struggle is worsened if individuals have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Survey data suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while the jabs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and long-term success hinges on combined lifestyle support.
