Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who stop using new weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who end traditional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a major health publication shows that while overweight individuals can lose about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals purchasing such treatments should be informed of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to original weight within about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually have a less rapid creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Experts propose the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "highlight the persistent character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the medication describe a intense resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced something flipping and you become ravenous," described an individual.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Survey data indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Use is greater among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss hinges on combined lifestyle support.
