New research suggests that individuals who stop using new weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who end conventional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a major health publication shows that while obese individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People purchasing these drugs must be aware of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a reversion to starting mass in about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a slower creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this medication results in hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities suggest the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "highlight the persistent character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
Users who have stopped the jabs explain a sudden return of cravings.
"It felt as if something activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," described one woman.
The struggle is compounded if users have not established permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Figures show that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Use is more common among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, experts emphasize that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing behavioural changes.
