A recent study indicates that individuals who discontinue popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a major medical journal shows that while overweight people frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users purchasing such medications must be aware of the potential of fast weight regain when the treatment ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to pre-treatment weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
The team note that people who shed pounds through dieting usually experience a slower creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the way of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "highlight the persistent nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs report a intense resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a switch flipping and you become extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
The struggle is compounded if patients have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Recent estimates indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Use is greater among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss hinges on combined lifestyle management.
