New research suggests that patients who discontinue new weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a major medical journal points out that while obese individuals can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People using such medications need to be cognizant of the danger of rapid weight regain when the medication ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a return to pre-treatment weight within about one and a half years.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers note that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally experience a less rapid creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this medication leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS advise the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, given the likelihood of relapse, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "highlight the long-term character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Experiences
Users who have stopped the medication describe a intense return of cravings.
"I experienced a switch flipping and you become starving," recalled a patient.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among women than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers stress that while these medications are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and long-term success likely depends on integrated lifestyle management.
