New research reveals that individuals who come off popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who halt traditional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a prominent health publication points out that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals using such drugs must be aware of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a return to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team note that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a slower weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the way of the injections explains the accelerated rebound.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication means appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS suggest the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have discontinued the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly starving," described a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if patients have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and lasting health benefits relies on integrated behavioural changes.
