Fresh analysis indicates that people who stop using popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals buying such drugs should be cognizant of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a return to original weight within about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which reviewed dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Scientists point out that individuals who shed pounds through dieting usually experience a less rapid creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Experts suggest the mechanism of the injections accounts for the amplified rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities suggest the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "highlight the persistent character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the jabs describe a sudden return of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch flipping and you become starving," said a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Survey data show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among females than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and lasting health benefits hinges on integrated lifestyle support.
