Fresh analysis indicates that patients who stop using popular weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who end conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users buying these drugs need to be aware of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a return to starting weight within about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
The team point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually see a slower creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Doctors propose the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the accelerated rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system 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 no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "highlight the persistent nature of obesity," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
Users who have come off the medication describe a intense resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and you become starving," said an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Interest
Survey data suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Use is greater among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and long-term success likely depends on ongoing lifestyle support.
