A recent study reveals that people who stop using popular weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover shed pounds much more quickly than those who end traditional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a prominent health publication points out that while overweight individuals can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People buying such drugs need to be informed of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a return to original mass in about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The study, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally see a slower creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the mode of action of the drugs explains the heightened weight return.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the chronic nature of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Accounts
People who have come off the medication report a powerful return of cravings.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," described a patient.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Use
Survey data suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts emphasize that while these medications are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and long-term success hinges on ongoing behavioural changes.
