New research reveals that people who come off popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a prominent health publication points out that while obese individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the mass is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People buying these drugs need to be cognizant of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a reversion to starting mass within about a year and a half.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Researchers point out that people who lose weight through diet and exercise usually experience a slower creep back—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the jabs accounts for the accelerated regain.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS advise the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often ongoing.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the long-term character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Users who have stopped the medication describe a sudden return of appetite.
"It was like a trigger that goes on and you're instantly ravenous," said a patient.
This challenge is worsened if patients have not established permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and lasting health benefits relies on ongoing lifestyle support.
