Fresh analysis indicates that people who come off popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who end conventional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a prominent health publication shows that while obese individuals often shed a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People using such medications need to be aware of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a return to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that people who shed pounds through dieting usually see a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the mode of action of the jabs explains the accelerated weight return.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication means hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment is often life-long.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "underscore the persistent nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Experiences
Individuals who have come off the medication report a intense resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger activating and you become ravenous," recalled a patient.
The struggle is worsened if individuals have not established lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Use
Figures indicate that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers stress that while these medications are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits relies on combined lifestyle support.
