New research suggests that people who discontinue new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal shows that while overweight individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users using these medications must be informed of the risk of fast weight regain when the medication ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a return to pre-treatment weight in about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which examined dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with other pills.
The team point out that people who lose weight through dieting generally have a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Nutrition scientists believe the way of the injections is key to understanding the heightened regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "underscore the long-term character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have come off the jabs describe a sudden return of appetite.
"I experienced a switch activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," said one woman.
This difficulty is worsened if users have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Figures indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success relies on integrated behavioural changes.
