Fresh analysis indicates that people who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover shed pounds far faster than those who end conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a major medical journal shows that while overweight individuals often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users using these drugs should be cognizant of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a return to starting weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting generally see a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Experts believe the mode of action of the injections explains the heightened weight return.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "emphasize the long-term nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
Users who have discontinued the jabs report a intense return of cravings.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and I was suddenly starving," described a patient.
The struggle is worsened if users have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Use is higher among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits relies on combined lifestyle changes.
