New research indicates that people who come off popular weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal shows that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People purchasing these medications need to be cognizant of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the medication ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to original weight in about 18 months.
Analyzing Therapies
The study, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that people who lose weight through dieting typically have a slower creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Doctors believe the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the amplified weight return.
These medications copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this medication results in hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the treatment is often life-long.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Testimonies
People who have come off the medication explain a intense resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a switch activating and I was suddenly ravenous," said a patient.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not established lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Use
Recent estimates show that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Use is more common among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and long-term success hinges on ongoing lifestyle management.
