Fresh analysis reveals that patients who come off new weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover lost weight far faster than those who stop traditional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a major medical journal points out that while obese people frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People buying these treatments need to be aware of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which examined dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that individuals who shed pounds through dieting generally have a less rapid creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Experts suggest the mode of action of the jabs accounts for the amplified rebound.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Condition?
The NHS suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
People who have come off the jabs describe a powerful return of hunger.
"I experienced something flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if users have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Figures suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among females than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing lifestyle changes.
