New research indicates that patients who come off blockbuster weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight far faster than those who stop conventional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals using such drugs should be informed of the risk of fast weight regain when the treatment is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise typically have a less rapid weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Doctors propose the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than normal may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS suggest the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy is often ongoing.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "highlight the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Testimonies
Users who have come off the medication describe a sudden return of cravings.
"It was like a switch activating and you're instantly ravenous," recalled one woman.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Use is higher among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success likely depends on ongoing lifestyle changes.
