A recent study indicates that patients who come off new weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a major medical journal points out that while obese individuals often shed a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People purchasing these medications should be cognizant of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a return to starting weight in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Therapies
The research, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise generally see a less rapid weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened regain.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "underscore the long-term character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Accounts
Users who have stopped the medication explain a sudden return of cravings.
"I experienced something that goes on and you become starving," said an individual.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Use is more common among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts emphasize that while these medications are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated lifestyle changes.
