A recent study suggests that individuals who stop using new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight far faster than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while obese individuals can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the mass is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals purchasing these drugs need to be informed of the risk of fast weight regain when the medication ends," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a return to pre-treatment mass within about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise typically have a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Doctors propose the way of the injections explains the heightened rebound.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than normal might result in the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities advise the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the therapy is often ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "underscore the persistent character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Users who have discontinued the jabs describe a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced something flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," said one woman.
This difficulty is worsened if users have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers stress that while these medications are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined lifestyle changes.
