Fresh analysis indicates that patients who stop using new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover reduced body mass far faster than those who halt traditional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a major medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users purchasing these drugs should be cognizant of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to starting mass in about a year and a half.
Comparing Approaches
The research, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team emphasize that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally see a less rapid weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Doctors propose the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened regain.
These medications copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the medication describe a sudden return of appetite.
"It was like a switch that goes on and you're instantly ravenous," said an individual.
This challenge is worsened if patients have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Use is more common among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians emphasize that while these medications are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss relies on integrated behavioural support.
