New research suggests that individuals who come off new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a prominent health publication shows that while overweight people often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users using these treatments should be informed of the risk of rapid weight regain when the treatment ends," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a reversion to starting weight within about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team emphasize that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise usually experience a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Doctors believe the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "underscore the chronic character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the medication report a intense return of cravings.
"It was like a switch flipping and you're instantly ravenous," said a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if users have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Survey data suggest that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is greater among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, experts stress that while these medications are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on integrated lifestyle support.
