New research reveals that patients who stop using popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who end traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a major health publication shows that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People buying such treatments must be aware of the risk of quick weight regain when the medication concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a reversion to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The study, which examined dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually see a slower creep back—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Experts suggest the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the accelerated regain.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Experiences
Users who have stopped the jabs explain a intense return of hunger.
"I experienced a switch flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," described an individual.
This challenge is worsened if users have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Figures show that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Use is greater among females than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians stress that while these medications are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing behavioural support.
