Fresh analysis suggests that people who stop using new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while obese people can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People purchasing such drugs must be cognizant of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a reversion to starting weight within about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which examined dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally experience a less rapid creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Rapid Rebound
Doctors suggest the way of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated rebound.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities recommend the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy is often ongoing.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Accounts
People who have stopped the jabs explain a sudden return of appetite.
"It was like something that goes on and you're instantly extremely hungry," said an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if users have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Figures indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Use is more common among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and lasting health benefits hinges on integrated lifestyle changes.
