Fresh analysis suggests that people who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional lifestyle regimens.
Published data in a leading medical journal shows that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users buying these treatments need to be cognizant of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to original mass within about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically have a less rapid creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Doctors believe the way of the injections explains the heightened weight return.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities recommend the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "underscore the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs report a intense return of appetite.
"It was like a trigger that goes on and you become ravenous," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if patients have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while these medications are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and long-term success likely depends on ongoing behavioural changes.
