New research reveals that people who discontinue new weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a prominent health publication shows that while obese people frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users buying these medications must be aware of the danger of rapid weight regain when the medication concludes," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a reversion to original weight in about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting typically experience a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Doctors believe the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal might result in the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the chronic nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Accounts
Individuals who have come off the medication describe a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and you become ravenous," described an individual.
This difficulty is worsened if patients have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, experts emphasize that while these medications are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and long-term success relies on ongoing behavioural changes.
