A recent study reveals that individuals who come off popular weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight people frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals purchasing such medications need to be cognizant of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a reversion to original mass within about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The analysis, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team point out that people who lose weight through dieting generally see a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Experts propose the mode of action of the injections explains the amplified weight return.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than normal may cause the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "underscore the long-term nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
People who have come off the medication explain a intense resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if something flipping and you become starving," described a patient.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Survey data indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among females than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians emphasize that while these medications are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss relies on integrated behavioural management.
