New research reveals that patients who stop using new weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People purchasing such medications should be aware of the potential of fast weight regain when the medication concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a return to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically see a less rapid creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Experts propose the way of the drugs accounts for the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Artificially providing 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 reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this medication means appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities suggest the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Users who have discontinued the medication describe a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if a switch activating and I was suddenly starving," described a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not established permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Interest
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Use is greater among women than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, experts stress that while the jabs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and lasting health benefits hinges on combined behavioural changes.
