New research reveals that individuals who come off blockbuster weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while obese individuals can lose a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users purchasing such medications need to be informed of the danger of quick weight regain when the medication ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a return to starting weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of these new drugs with other pills.
The team note that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically have a more gradual weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the way of the drugs accounts for the amplified regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities advise the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "highlight the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
People who have stopped the jabs report a sudden return of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and you become ravenous," described an individual.
This challenge is compounded if users have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and long-term success likely depends on integrated lifestyle management.
