New research reveals that patients who come off blockbuster weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a major health publication points out that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users using these drugs must be aware of the danger of quick weight regain when the medication is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team point out that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually have a less rapid creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Doctors propose the mechanism of the jabs explains the accelerated rebound.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities suggest the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the treatment is often ongoing.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the long-term character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Experiences
Users who have stopped the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if something that goes on and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if patients have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Significant Interest
Recent estimates suggest that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians stress that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing behavioural support.
