New research suggests that individuals who come off new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a major health publication shows that while overweight people frequently drop substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals buying these treatments need to be aware of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually see a more gradual weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Doctors believe the mode of action of the injections accounts for the amplified rebound.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Issue?
The NHS advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "highlight the persistent nature of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
People who have stopped the medication report a intense return of hunger.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and you're instantly ravenous," said one woman.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among women than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined behavioural changes.
