New research reveals that individuals who stop using new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese individuals often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users using these treatments must be informed of the danger of quick weight regain when the medication is stopped," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a return to original mass in about 18 months.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Scientists point out that people who lose weight through dieting generally have a slower creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, given the high risk of weight regain, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "underscore the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
Users who have come off the medication explain a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a switch activating and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Use is greater among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, experts stress that while the jabs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and lasting health benefits relies on integrated behavioural support.
