A recent study indicates that individuals who stop using new weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal points out that while overweight individuals often shed about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals purchasing these treatments need to be cognizant of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a reversion to original mass in about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Scientists note that people who lose weight through dieting usually see a slower creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Doctors propose the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, given the high risk of relapse, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
People who have stopped the jabs describe a sudden return of hunger.
"It felt as if something that goes on and I was suddenly starving," recalled a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Use
Figures indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts emphasize that while these medications are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits hinges on ongoing lifestyle changes.
