A recent study indicates that people who come off popular weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who end traditional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a leading medical journal points out that while obese individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals purchasing such medications must be cognizant of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a return to pre-treatment weight in about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically have a more gradual creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the amplified rebound.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal might result in the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS advise the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the therapy is often long-term.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have come off the jabs report a sudden return of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and you're instantly ravenous," said an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Figures suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success relies on integrated behavioural support.
