A recent study indicates that individuals who stop using new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while obese people often shed about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals using these treatments should be informed of the risk of rapid weight regain when the treatment ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to pre-treatment weight in about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through dieting typically see a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Doctors believe the mode of action of the drugs explains the heightened regain.
The injections copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication means hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "underscore the persistent character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
People who have discontinued the jabs explain a intense return of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and you become ravenous," described a patient.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Use
Recent estimates indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts emphasize that while these medications are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and long-term success likely depends on combined lifestyle changes.
