New research indicates that individuals who stop using popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who end conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal points out that while overweight people frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals purchasing these medications need to be cognizant of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the medication ends," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a return to starting weight in about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through dieting usually have a slower weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Experts believe the way of the injections is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "underscore the chronic nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
Users who have come off the jabs describe a intense return of appetite.
"It was like a trigger that goes on and you become extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and lasting health benefits relies on ongoing lifestyle support.
