A recent study reveals that people who come off new weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a leading medical journal shows that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying these treatments must be cognizant of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a reversion to starting mass within about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The study, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise generally see a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Doctors propose the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this medication leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Issue?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "highlight the chronic nature of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the medication report a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a trigger activating and you become extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not established lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Survey data suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Use is greater among women than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success hinges on ongoing lifestyle changes.
