A recent study reveals that individuals who come off popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a leading health publication demonstrates that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People using these drugs should be informed of the risk of rapid weight regain when the therapy ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a reversion to starting mass in about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists note that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually have a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Experts propose the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities recommend the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the chronic character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
People who have come off the medication explain a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"It was like something activating and you're instantly ravenous," recalled one woman.
This challenge is worsened if patients have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Use
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, experts emphasize that while these medications are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and long-term success hinges on combined lifestyle changes.