A recent study indicates that people who come off new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while overweight people often shed a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals using these medications need to be cognizant of the risk of quick weight regain when the therapy concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a return to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team point out that individuals who shed pounds through dieting typically have a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Doctors believe the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than normal may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication means appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the treatment is often life-long.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "highlight the persistent nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Testimonies
Users who have come off the jabs report a sudden return of hunger.
"It felt as if something activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Recent estimates indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among women than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while these medications are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on integrated lifestyle management.
