OXFORD, England - People who stop using medications like Wegovy regain weight four times faster than those who lose weight through traditional diet and exercise, according to a report published Wednesday.

Researchers at the University of Oxford analyzed data on weight management strategies and published their findings in The British Medical Journal. The team discovered that patients regained about 1.8 pounds every month after they stopped taking the injections. In contrast, people who stopped dieting and exercise routines regained weight at a rate of roughly 0.2 to 0.6 pounds per month.

The study predicts that former drug users will return to their starting weight within a year and a half. The authors noted that health benefits gained during treatment, such as lower blood pressure and improved cholesterol, also disappear during that time frame.

Pharmaceutical companies Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly have stated that these medications are intended for long-term use. The manufacturers argue that obesity is a chronic condition like high blood pressure and requires continuous treatment. Clinical trials for drugs like Zepbound showed that patients regained weight after they ceased the medication.

Cost remains a factor for many patients facing long-term treatment. Without insurance, the list price for these injectables can exceed $1,000 per month, though recent manufacturer discounts and new daily pill options have lowered the cost to between $150 and $350 for some users.

The new findings come as usage rates for the drugs continue to rise. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported in August that about 26 percent of American adults with diabetes use these injectable medications. Industry estimates suggest about 10 percent of the total U.S. adult population currently takes them for diabetes or weight control.