Fresh analysis reveals that people who stop using popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a major health publication shows that while overweight individuals often shed about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals using these medications must be aware of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a reversion to starting weight within about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with older methods.
The team emphasize that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a more gradual weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Experts suggest the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the amplified regain.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the long-term character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have come off the medication explain a sudden return of cravings.
"It felt as if a switch activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," said an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not established permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Recent estimates show that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers stress that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and long-term success hinges on integrated lifestyle management.
