Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal points out that while obese people often shed a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People using these treatments must be cognizant of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to pre-treatment mass in about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who lose weight through dieting typically experience a less rapid creep back—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the injections explains the accelerated weight return.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, due to the high risk of relapse, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the medication explain a sudden return of cravings.
"It was like a trigger activating and you become starving," recalled a patient.
This challenge is worsened if users have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates show that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians emphasize that while these medications are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss hinges on combined lifestyle support.
