New research suggests that individuals who come off new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt traditional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals often shed a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals using such drugs need to be informed of the danger of quick weight regain when the medication is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a return to starting mass within about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Researchers note that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically experience a slower weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Experts believe the way of the drugs explains the amplified regain.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "highlight the persistent character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Experiences
People who have discontinued the medication describe a intense return of hunger.
"It felt as if something that goes on and you become starving," recalled a patient.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not established permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates show that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is more common among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts caution that while these medications are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and lasting health benefits relies on integrated lifestyle support.
