Fresh analysis reveals that people who discontinue popular weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a major health publication demonstrates that while obese people frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals buying these drugs must be informed of the potential of fast weight regain when the treatment ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a return to starting weight within about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The analysis, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team emphasize that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise usually experience a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Experts suggest the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, given the high risk of weight regain, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "underscore the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
Users who have come off the medication report a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced something flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," described a patient.
The struggle is worsened if users have not established lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Use
Survey data indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts stress that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and long-term success relies on integrated behavioural changes.
