Users Discontinuing Anti-Obesity Medications Gain Back Pounds Far More Rapidly Compared to People Using Diet and Exercise

A recent study suggests that patients who come off new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt conventional diet and exercise plans.

Research printed in a leading health publication shows that while overweight individuals often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.

"Users using such medications should be cognizant of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.

That rate of regain means a reversion to original weight in about one and a half years.

Comparing Therapies

The research, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.

Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a more gradual creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.

The Reason for the Quick Rebound

Experts propose the way of the drugs accounts for the accelerated rebound.

These medications copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.

"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.

"Discontinuation of this medication leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."

A Lifelong Issue?

The NHS suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.

A number of clinicians say that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy should be considered ongoing.

This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "highlight the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.

User Experiences

People who have discontinued the medication describe a powerful resurgence of hunger.

"It was like something flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said one woman.

The struggle is worsened if users have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.

Widespread Adoption

Figures suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.

• Use is greater among females than males.
• The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
• A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.

Ultimately, experts emphasize that while the jabs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss relies on combined behavioural support.