A recent study reveals that people who stop using new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt traditional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a leading medical journal points out that while obese individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals using such treatments need to be informed of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a reversion to original mass in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The analysis, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers note that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically have a less rapid creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Doctors propose the mechanism of the injections accounts for the heightened regain.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, given the high risk of relapse, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the chronic nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have come off the medication describe a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a switch activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said an individual.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Significant Interest
Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Use is greater among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts stress that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and long-term success hinges on combined lifestyle changes.
