New research suggests that people who discontinue new weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover lost weight much more quickly than those who end conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a major health publication shows that while overweight people frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users using these treatments need to be aware of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a return to pre-treatment mass in about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a more gradual weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the injections accounts for the amplified regain.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, given the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Users who have come off the jabs report a sudden return of cravings.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and you're instantly starving," described one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Use
Recent estimates show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Use is greater among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians stress that while these medications are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss relies on integrated behavioural management.
