New research suggests that patients who come off blockbuster weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while obese people can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals using such medications should be aware of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a reversion to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists note that individuals who lose weight through dieting typically see a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Rapid Rebound
Doctors propose the mechanism of the injections accounts for the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels far above than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have stopped the jabs explain a intense return of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch flipping and you become ravenous," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Survey data indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss relies on combined lifestyle support.
