Fresh analysis reveals that patients who come off popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a leading medical journal points out that while obese individuals can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users buying such treatments need to be informed of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a return to original weight within about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that individuals who lose weight through dieting typically see a less rapid creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Experts believe the way of the drugs accounts for the accelerated weight return.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "emphasize the long-term character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have come off the jabs describe a powerful return of appetite.
"I experienced a trigger activating and you're instantly ravenous," said a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not established lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated behavioural changes.
