New research reveals that people who discontinue blockbuster weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover lost weight far faster than those who end conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a major medical journal points out that while overweight individuals can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users buying these medications need to be aware of the risk of rapid weight regain when the medication concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a reversion to original weight in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The research, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of these new drugs with older methods.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through diet and exercise generally have a less rapid weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists believe the mechanism of the injections is key to understanding the amplified rebound.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "underscore the long-term nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Testimonies
Users who have discontinued the jabs describe a sudden return of hunger.
"It was like a trigger flipping and you're instantly starving," said a patient.
The struggle is compounded if users have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Use is higher among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while the jabs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success likely depends on integrated behavioural changes.
