A recent study reveals that people who stop using new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who halt conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese people often shed about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals purchasing such medications must be aware of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a reversion to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
Scientists point out that people who lose weight through diet and exercise generally see a less rapid creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Doctors propose the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also lessen sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this medication means appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Users who have stopped the medication report a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if something activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled one woman.
The struggle is worsened if users have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Use
Figures show that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among females than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians emphasize that while these medications are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss hinges on combined lifestyle support.
