New research suggests that individuals who discontinue popular weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who end traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a prominent health publication shows that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users using such medications must be aware of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a return to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team point out that people who shed pounds through dieting generally experience a less rapid creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Experts suggest the mechanism of the jabs explains the amplified rebound.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the chronic nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
People who have stopped the jabs report a intense return of appetite.
"It felt as if something flipping and I was suddenly starving," described a patient.
This challenge is worsened if patients have not established lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Figures suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among females than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and lasting health benefits relies on ongoing behavioural changes.
