A recent study reveals that people who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover reduced body mass far faster than those who halt traditional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a prominent health publication points out that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People buying such treatments must be cognizant of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a return to starting mass in about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with older methods.
Researchers point out that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise generally see a less rapid weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Experts propose the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the amplified weight return.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, given the likelihood of relapse, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "emphasize the long-term character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the jabs report a intense resurgence of hunger.
"It was like something that goes on and you become ravenous," described an individual.
This challenge is worsened if users have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates show that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among women than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success hinges on ongoing lifestyle management.