New research indicates that patients who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who stop conventional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a prominent health publication shows that while overweight individuals often shed about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals purchasing such medications must be aware of the risk of fast weight regain when the treatment is stopped," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to starting weight in about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers point out that people who shed pounds through dieting generally see a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Experts suggest the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the accelerated weight return.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this medication results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the chronic nature of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Accounts
Users who have discontinued the medication describe a powerful return of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and you're instantly extremely hungry," said one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Recent estimates show that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is greater among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and lasting health benefits likely depends on combined behavioural management.
