New research suggests that people who stop using popular weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight far faster than those who halt traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a major medical journal shows that while overweight individuals often shed about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Users using such drugs should be informed of the potential of rapid weight regain when the medication is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment mass within about 18 months.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team emphasize that people who shed pounds through dieting generally experience a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Experts propose the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the amplified regain.
These medications copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the persistent character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs explain a intense return of appetite.
"It was like a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," described an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Use
Recent estimates indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while these medications are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and long-term success relies on ongoing behavioural changes.
