Fresh analysis reveals that patients who stop using popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese individuals can lose a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users using these treatments need to be cognizant of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to original weight in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that individuals who shed pounds through dieting generally experience a more gradual weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the way of the jabs is key to understanding the amplified weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities advise the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "highlight the persistent character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs describe a powerful return of appetite.
"It was like something flipping and you become starving," recalled an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Survey data show that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss relies on combined behavioural support.
