New research suggests that people who stop using new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt traditional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a major health publication shows that while obese people frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying such drugs need to be informed of the danger of rapid weight regain when the treatment ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a reversion to original weight within about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The analysis, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
The team note that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually have a slower weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Experts propose the mechanism of the jabs explains the accelerated weight return.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than normal might result in the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, given the high risk of weight regain, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
Users who have stopped the medication describe a sudden return of hunger.
"It was like a switch that goes on and you become starving," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if patients have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Survey data indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among females than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and long-term success hinges on ongoing behavioural support.
