New research suggests that individuals who come off blockbuster weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who halt traditional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a major medical journal points out that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People using these treatments should be cognizant of the danger of fast weight regain when the therapy is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a return to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
The team note that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually have a less rapid creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Experts believe the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the heightened regain.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this medication means appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
Users who have discontinued the medication report a sudden return of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," said an individual.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Figures suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians caution that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss hinges on integrated lifestyle management.
