New research suggests that individuals who come off blockbuster weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a leading health publication points out that while obese people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals using such drugs should be cognizant of the danger of fast weight regain when the therapy ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a reversion to original mass within about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that people who lose weight through diet and exercise generally see a more gradual weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Doctors believe the mechanism of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated rebound.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the treatment is often life-long.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the long-term character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Testimonies
Users who have come off the jabs describe a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a switch activating and you become ravenous," recalled one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Figures suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers caution that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on integrated behavioural support.
