Fresh analysis reveals that people who discontinue new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight people frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People buying these medications should be informed of the potential of rapid weight regain when the medication is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a reversion to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a more gradual creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Experts propose the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened regain.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, given the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "highlight the long-term character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have discontinued the medication explain a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if something flipping and you become ravenous," said one woman.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Interest
Survey data suggest that millions 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 middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts caution that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and long-term success likely depends on combined lifestyle management.
