New research suggests that people who come off popular weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass far faster than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a major health publication points out that while obese individuals frequently drop a large proportion 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 buying such treatments should be informed of the potential of rapid weight regain when the medication ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a reversion to starting weight in about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team note that individuals who shed pounds through dieting typically experience a slower weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mode of action of the injections accounts for the amplified rebound.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels far above than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating a significant risk."
A Chronic Condition?
The NHS suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "highlight the persistent character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the medication report a intense resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if something activating and you're instantly starving," said a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not established permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Survey data indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Use is more common among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while these medications are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined lifestyle changes.
