New research indicates that people who come off new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight far faster than those who end traditional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a major medical journal points out that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals using such drugs need to be cognizant of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a return to starting weight within about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually see a more gradual weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS suggest the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Accounts
Users who have stopped the jabs describe a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger activating and you're instantly ravenous," said a patient.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Survey data suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while these medications are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated behavioural changes.
