A recent study suggests that patients who come off new weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass far faster than those who halt traditional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a major medical journal shows that while obese people frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users purchasing these drugs need to be aware of the risk of rapid weight regain when the medication ends," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a reversion to original mass in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers note that people who lose weight through dieting usually see a more gradual creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mechanism of the injections explains the amplified rebound.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, given the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the chronic character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
People who have stopped the medication report a powerful return of cravings.
"It felt as if something that goes on and I was suddenly starving," said a patient.
This challenge is compounded if users have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers stress that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and lasting health benefits hinges on combined behavioural changes.
