A recent study suggests that individuals who discontinue popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People buying these drugs should be cognizant of the potential of rapid weight regain when the medication concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a return to original mass in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The research, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team point out that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically have a more gradual weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated rebound.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Users who have stopped the jabs describe a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced a switch flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," said one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Figures show that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while these medications are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success hinges on integrated behavioural support.
