Fresh analysis reveals that people who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal points out that while overweight people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People using these drugs should be aware of the danger of rapid weight regain when the treatment ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a return to pre-treatment weight within about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually see a slower creep back—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Experts suggest the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this medication means hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
The NHS advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment is often ongoing.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "underscore the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
People who have come off the medication explain a sudden return of hunger.
"It felt as if something activating and you're instantly starving," described an individual.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Significant Use
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians emphasize that while these medications are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss hinges on integrated lifestyle support.
