New research indicates that people who discontinue new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight far faster than those who stop conventional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users purchasing these medications should be cognizant of the risk of rapid weight regain when the therapy ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment mass within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with other pills.
Scientists note that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally have a less rapid creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Experts believe the way of the jabs is key to understanding the amplified rebound.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
People who have discontinued the medication describe a sudden return of hunger.
"It was like something activating and you become ravenous," recalled one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Significant Interest
Figures indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians stress that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural management.
