A recent study reveals that patients who discontinue popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a leading medical journal shows that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People purchasing these medications need to be cognizant of the danger of rapid weight regain when the medication is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a reversion to starting mass in about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise typically experience a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Experts suggest the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Testimonies
People who have discontinued the jabs explain a sudden return of hunger.
"It felt as if something flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," said a patient.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Figures suggest that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among females than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits hinges on ongoing behavioural support.
