A recent study suggests that people who stop using new weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover shed pounds much more quickly than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a major medical journal shows that while overweight people often shed a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People buying these treatments must be informed of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a reversion to pre-treatment mass within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of these new drugs with older methods.
The team emphasize that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically have a less rapid creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Doctors suggest the way of the injections explains the heightened weight return.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than normal might result in the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
Health authorities suggest the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the likelihood of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "highlight the long-term nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs explain a intense resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and you become extremely hungry," described one woman.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Use
Survey data suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among females than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and long-term success relies on combined lifestyle management.
