New research reveals that people who discontinue new weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight far faster than those who stop traditional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a leading health publication demonstrates that while overweight individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users purchasing these drugs should be informed of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
Researchers point out that people who shed pounds through dieting usually experience a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Experts propose the mechanism of the drugs explains the accelerated rebound.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement means hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "emphasize the chronic character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Accounts
Users who have discontinued the medication describe a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a switch that goes on and you become starving," recalled one woman.
The struggle is worsened if users have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Figures indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers caution that while the jabs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss hinges on integrated behavioural changes.
