A recent study indicates that people who stop using new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who halt traditional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a prominent health publication shows that while obese individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users buying such treatments should be informed of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a reversion to starting mass within about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The analysis, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists point out that people who lose weight through diet and exercise generally experience a slower weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the long-term character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Users who have come off the medication explain a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a switch activating and you're instantly ravenous," said one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Survey data indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts emphasize that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and lasting health benefits relies on integrated lifestyle changes.
