Fresh analysis reveals that people who discontinue new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight far faster than those who end traditional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while obese individuals often shed about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users buying these treatments need to be informed of the danger of quick weight regain when the therapy ends," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a reversion to starting weight within about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Scientists emphasize that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally see a more gradual weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the way of the drugs explains the heightened weight return.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the therapy is often long-term.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "underscore the long-term character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
People who have stopped the medication report a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if something flipping and you become starving," described a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success relies on ongoing lifestyle management.
