A recent study indicates that people who discontinue new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds far faster than those who halt traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a major medical journal points out that while obese individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals using these drugs should be cognizant of the danger of quick weight regain when the therapy is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a return to original weight within about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with older methods.
The team point out that people who lose weight through dieting typically see a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Doctors suggest the way of the injections is key to understanding the amplified rebound.
These medications copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than normal might result in the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, given the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "underscore the chronic nature of obesity," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Users who have discontinued the jabs explain a intense return of cravings.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," said a patient.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Survey data show that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing behavioural changes.
