New research suggests that individuals who discontinue new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover shed pounds far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People buying such medications must be informed of the danger of rapid weight regain when the medication is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a return to starting weight within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Scientists note that people who lose weight through dieting generally experience a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Doctors propose the mode of action of the jabs accounts for the amplified weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating a significant risk."
A Chronic Issue?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "highlight the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Accounts
People who have stopped the medication describe a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a switch activating and I was suddenly ravenous," described a patient.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not established lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Figures indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Use is greater among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and long-term success hinges on combined behavioural management.
