Fresh analysis suggests that patients who discontinue new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a prominent health publication points out that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People purchasing such medications need to be informed of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the medication ends," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise usually see a more gradual creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Experts suggest the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "highlight the long-term nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Accounts
People who have stopped the medication report a intense resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a switch flipping and you become ravenous," described one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Use is greater among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, experts emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and lasting health benefits hinges on ongoing lifestyle management.