A recent study indicates that people who stop using popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt traditional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a major health publication points out that while overweight individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People buying such drugs should be cognizant of the risk of rapid weight regain when the therapy ends," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a return to starting weight within about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which examined dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists point out that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually see a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than normal might result in the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also lessen sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "emphasize the long-term nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the medication describe a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if something activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," said an individual.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Figures suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Use is more common among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers caution that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing behavioural changes.
