A recent study suggests that patients who come off new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who end conventional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a leading medical journal points out that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users purchasing these medications must be informed of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a return to starting weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually see a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the amplified regain.
The injections copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than normal may cause the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this medication results in appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
A Chronic Condition?
The NHS suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "underscore the persistent character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
People who have discontinued the medication report a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and you're instantly starving," said one woman.
This difficulty is exacerbated if users have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Figures suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Use is higher among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts caution that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural changes.
