A recent study suggests that individuals who come off popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a prominent health publication points out that while obese individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users using these medications must be cognizant of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to original mass in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise generally have a more gradual creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the heightened rebound.
The injections copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy is often life-long.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
Users who have stopped the medication explain a intense return of cravings.
"It felt as if a switch flipping and you become starving," said an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if users have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Use
Survey data show 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 males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts caution that while the jabs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits hinges on combined lifestyle changes.
