Fresh analysis indicates that people who come off new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds far faster than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a leading medical journal points out that while obese people often shed about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People using these drugs should be aware of the danger of quick weight regain when the medication ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a reversion to starting weight within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Scientists point out that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically see a more gradual weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the way of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
The NHS advise the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "highlight the chronic nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the medication report a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced something that goes on and you're instantly starving," said an individual.
This challenge is worsened if users have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Use
Figures indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians caution that while these medications are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss hinges on combined behavioural changes.
