Fresh analysis indicates that people who stop using new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt conventional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a major medical journal points out that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People using these drugs need to be cognizant of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to starting mass in about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally see a more gradual creep back—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Experts suggest the mode of action of the injections explains the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this medication leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "underscore the long-term character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the jabs describe a powerful return of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and I was suddenly starving," recalled one woman.
This difficulty is exacerbated if users have not established lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Figures suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Use is higher among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, experts stress that while the jabs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and long-term success likely depends on integrated lifestyle changes.
