New research suggests that patients who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight far faster than those who end conventional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a major medical journal shows that while obese people often shed about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People buying these treatments should be informed of the potential of fast weight regain when the treatment concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a reversion to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically have a less rapid creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the way of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than normal might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
The NHS recommend the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "highlight the chronic character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the medication explain a intense return of cravings.
"It was like a trigger that goes on and you become ravenous," recalled a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Figures show that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing lifestyle changes.
