Fresh analysis indicates that people who come off popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover lost weight much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People purchasing such medications need to be aware of the risk of rapid weight regain when the medication is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a reversion to starting weight within about 18 months.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers note that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a slower weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the accelerated regain.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal may cause the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS recommend the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "highlight the long-term character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the jabs describe a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a trigger activating and you become ravenous," recalled an individual.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Use
Figures indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing behavioural management.
