New research suggests that people who come off new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a leading health publication points out that while obese individuals often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users using these medications need to be informed of the risk of fast weight regain when the therapy concludes," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a return to original mass within about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The analysis, which examined dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically have a more gradual weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the jabs explains the accelerated rebound.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the likelihood of relapse, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have come off the medication describe a sudden return of appetite.
"It felt as if something that goes on and you become extremely hungry," described an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if patients have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Use is more common among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians stress that while the jabs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and long-term success likely depends on ongoing lifestyle support.
