A recent study indicates that individuals who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who halt traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a leading medical journal points out that while obese individuals often shed a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the weight is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People buying such treatments must be cognizant of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a return to original mass in about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
The team note that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually see a more gradual creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Doctors propose the way of the injections explains the heightened rebound.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than normal might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
Health authorities advise the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "highlight the persistent nature of obesity," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
People who have come off the jabs describe a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced a switch activating and you're instantly starving," described an individual.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Survey data show that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Use is greater among females than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while the jabs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success hinges on ongoing behavioural changes.
