New research suggests that individuals who come off popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who end traditional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users buying such medications should be cognizant of the risk of quick weight regain when the medication ends," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to starting mass in about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The analysis, which examined dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
Researchers note that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually experience a slower weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the drugs explains the heightened regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "underscore the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the medication explain a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if something activating and you're instantly starving," said a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not established lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Survey data indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Use is more common among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts caution that while these medications are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing behavioural changes.
