Fresh analysis indicates that patients who come off new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight far faster than those who end conventional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a major health publication shows that while overweight individuals often shed a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users buying these treatments must be informed of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through diet and exercise usually see a more gradual weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Doctors believe the way of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
The injections copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication means hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities suggest the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
People who have come off the jabs report a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a switch activating and you become extremely hungry," described one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Recent estimates suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while the jabs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss hinges on combined lifestyle support.
