New research reveals that individuals who stop using new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass far faster than those who stop traditional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People using these medications need to be aware of the potential of rapid weight regain when the treatment ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a reversion to original mass within about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team note that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally experience a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Experts suggest the mode of action of the injections explains the amplified regain.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment is often ongoing.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "underscore the chronic nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Experiences
People who have discontinued the medication describe a intense return of hunger.
"It was like a trigger activating and you become starving," said a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Use
Survey data indicate that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians stress that while these medications are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss relies on combined lifestyle management.
