New research suggests that people who stop using new weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight far faster than those who stop traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users using such treatments should be informed of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a reversion to original mass within about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The study, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
The team note that people who shed pounds through dieting typically experience a slower weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Experts propose the way of the injections is key to understanding the amplified regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the therapy is often long-term.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "highlight the persistent character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Experiences
Users who have stopped the medication describe a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if something activating and you're instantly starving," said a patient.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Growing Use
Survey data suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits relies on integrated behavioural management.
