A recent study reveals that people who come off popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who halt traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a major health publication points out that while obese people often shed substantial amounts 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.
"People buying such drugs should be informed of the potential of quick weight regain when the medication is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to original weight within about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually see a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Experts suggest the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the heightened rebound.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
The NHS suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment is often long-term.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "underscore the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
People who have come off the medication describe a intense return of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and you become extremely hungry," said a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Use
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on integrated behavioural changes.
