New research suggests that individuals who stop using new weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight far faster than those who halt conventional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while obese individuals often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals using these drugs need to be aware of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to starting weight in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Therapies
The study, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists point out that people who lose weight through dieting usually see a less rapid weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the way of the jabs explains the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "underscore the chronic character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the jabs explain a sudden return of appetite.
"It was like something that goes on and you become ravenous," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not established lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Growing Use
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians caution that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing lifestyle management.
