A recent study suggests that individuals who stop using popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain reduced body mass far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a major health publication demonstrates that while overweight people frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users purchasing these treatments should be aware of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Therapies
The study, which reviewed dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that people who shed pounds through dieting typically see a slower weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Doctors propose the mechanism of the drugs explains the amplified rebound.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
Health authorities advise the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "emphasize the chronic nature of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Users who have discontinued the medication describe a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a switch flipping and I was suddenly starving," said an individual.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Interest
Survey data indicate that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated lifestyle changes.
