New research indicates that people who stop using new weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a major health publication points out that while obese individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals buying such drugs must be informed of the risk of fast weight regain when the treatment ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a reversion to starting mass within about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which reviewed dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with older methods.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through dieting generally experience a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the heightened weight return.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy is often ongoing.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs report a powerful return of hunger.
"It was like a switch that goes on and you become ravenous," said an individual.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Use
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Use is greater among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians caution that while these medications are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss relies on integrated lifestyle changes.
