Individuals Stopping Anti-Obesity Injections Gain Back Pounds Far More Rapidly Compared to Dieters
New research suggests that individuals who come off popular slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals buying these treatments must be aware of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a return to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team note that people who lose weight through dieting usually see a slower creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists believe the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the amplified rebound.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, due to the high risk of relapse, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "highlight the chronic character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
Users who have come off the medication describe a powerful return of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and you're instantly ravenous," described one woman.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Interest
Figures indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while these medications are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing behavioural support.
