A recent study reveals that individuals who come off new weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who end conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a leading health publication demonstrates that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users using such medications must be aware of the danger of rapid weight regain when the therapy concludes," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists emphasize that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually see a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Doctors believe the mode of action of the injections accounts for the accelerated weight return.
The injections copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than normal may cause the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "emphasize the long-term nature of obesity," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the medication describe a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a trigger flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said a patient.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Interest
Survey data suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is greater among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians stress that while these medications are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing behavioural support.
