New research reveals that individuals who stop using new weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal points out that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People purchasing such treatments should be aware of the potential of rapid weight regain when the medication ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a return to original mass within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
Researchers note that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically experience a more gradual weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Rapid Rebound
Experts believe the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS advise the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "highlight the chronic character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
People who have come off the medication explain a sudden return of appetite.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly starving," recalled a patient.
The struggle is worsened if individuals have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Interest
Survey data show that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Use is more common among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while the jabs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing behavioural support.
