A recent study indicates that patients who stop using new weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while overweight individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals using such medications must be cognizant of the danger of fast weight regain when the medication concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a return to pre-treatment weight within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally see a slower weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Experts propose the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the heightened weight return.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS advise the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the long-term character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
People who have stopped the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It was like something activating and I was suddenly ravenous," said a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Use is higher among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, experts stress that while these medications are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing lifestyle changes.
