Fresh analysis suggests that patients who stop using new weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a leading health publication points out that while overweight people frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People using such drugs need to be informed of the danger of rapid weight regain when the therapy concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a reversion to original weight in about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically see a more gradual creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Nutrition scientists believe the way of the injections explains the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "emphasize the long-term character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
People who have come off the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if something flipping and you become ravenous," recalled a patient.
This challenge is worsened if patients have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Use
Figures indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is more common among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts stress that while these medications are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss relies on integrated lifestyle support.
