New research suggests that people who stop using new weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who halt traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people often shed a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People buying these drugs must be informed of the risk of rapid weight regain when the treatment is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a reversion to original weight within about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The analysis, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally have a slower weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
These medications copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "emphasize the persistent character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the medication explain a intense return of hunger.
"I experienced a switch that goes on and you become ravenous," said one woman.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Significant Use
Survey data indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts stress that while these medications are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and lasting health benefits relies on ongoing lifestyle management.
