Fresh analysis reveals that people who discontinue blockbuster weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a prominent health publication shows that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals buying such medications must be aware of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a reversion to starting weight within about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through diet and exercise generally experience a less rapid weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the way of the jabs explains the heightened rebound.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS suggest the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "emphasize the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
People who have come off the jabs report a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and you become starving," described a patient.
This challenge is compounded if users have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Figures indicate that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Use is higher among females than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and long-term success hinges on ongoing lifestyle support.
