Published: 2026-01-16
Updated: 2026-01-16
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Map of Health content is prepared with an evidence-based approach. References are provided for transparency.
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This content is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have an urgent medical concern, seek immediate care.
"Weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro, which have achieved record sales worldwide, are used by millions for their promise of rapid weight loss. However, a new study published in the British Medical Journal revealed that those who stop using these drugs regain the weight they lost four times faster than those who follow traditional diets."
What does the research say?
According to a study that analyzed data from over nine thousand patients, those using weight-loss injections can lose approximately one-fifth of their body weight. However, after stopping the medication:
- Rapid Regain: Those who stop the injections gain an average of 0.8 kg per month.
- The 18-Month Rule: Most users fully regain their previous weight about a year and a half after stopping treatment.
- Comparison with Diet: Weight regain in those following a traditional diet and exercise regimen remains at only around 0.1 kg per month.
Why is weight gained so rapidly?
Experts explain the biological reasons for this condition with the hormone "GLP-1." These injections artificially mimic a natural hormone that creates a feeling of fullness in the body, at very high levels.
- Desensitization: Long-term artificial hormone supplementation can reduce the body's sensitivity to its own natural hormone production.
- Hunger Surge: The moment the medication is stopped, users describe the situation as "a sudden hunger pang, as if a switch has been flipped." The brain may force the person to overeat, as if trying to compensate for the long-term restriction.
"We Forget to Diet"
According to nutritionist Dr. Adam Collins, the biggest risk is relying too much on medication. When a person relies solely on injections to control their appetite and doesn't make lifestyle and behavioral changes, they become vulnerable the day they stop taking the medication.
Pharmaceutical Companies' Defense: "This is a Chronic Disease"
Pharmaceutical manufacturers (Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk) argue that obesity is a chronic condition, just like high blood pressure or diabetes. According to this viewpoint, treatment to maintain weight may need to continue for life or for a very long time.
In summary, here are the points to consider:
- Not a Miracle, but Support: Injections alone are not the solution; they should be supported by healthy eating and physical activity.
- Discontinuation Plan: If treatment is to be discontinued, a transition plan should be made under the supervision of a doctor to mitigate the risk of weight regain.
- Short-Term Benefit: Experts remind us that even if it takes 2-3 years, weight loss is beneficial for heart and joint health, but the lasting result lies in lifestyle changes.
