New research indicates that people who discontinue popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a major medical journal shows that while obese individuals can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People purchasing such medications should be cognizant of the risk of fast weight regain when the medication ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to original weight in about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting usually experience a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Experts propose the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal might result in the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, given the high risk of relapse, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "highlight the long-term character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Testimonies
Users who have stopped the jabs describe a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if something flipping and you become ravenous," said a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates show that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Use is more common among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians stress that while these medications are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and long-term success relies on ongoing lifestyle changes.
