New research indicates that individuals who come off blockbuster weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a leading medical journal shows that while overweight individuals can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals purchasing such medications need to be informed of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a reversion to starting mass in about 18 months.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team note that people who lose weight through diet and exercise generally experience a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Experts suggest the way of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this medication leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
Health authorities advise the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the high risk of relapse, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "underscore the chronic nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs explain a sudden return of cravings.
"It felt as if a switch activating and I was suddenly ravenous," described one woman.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Use
Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians caution that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined lifestyle support.
