A recent study suggests that individuals who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who end traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a major health publication demonstrates that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals purchasing these drugs must be aware of the potential of fast weight regain when the treatment concludes," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a reversion to original weight within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of these new drugs with older methods.
Researchers note that people who lose weight through dieting usually experience a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the heightened rebound.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "underscore the long-term character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have discontinued the jabs describe a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced something activating and you become ravenous," described a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Figures indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss hinges on combined lifestyle support.
