New research suggests that patients who discontinue new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a leading medical journal shows that while overweight people often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals purchasing these medications should be cognizant of the danger of fast weight regain when the treatment is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a reversion to starting mass within about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
The team emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a slower creep back—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Doctors suggest the way of the drugs explains the accelerated regain.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement means appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "highlight the chronic character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Users who have discontinued the medication report a intense resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced something activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," described an individual.
This challenge is worsened if users have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Figures suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Use is greater among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, experts emphasize that while these medications are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success hinges on ongoing behavioural changes.
