New research reveals that people who stop using new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a leading medical journal shows that while overweight people often shed a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People purchasing these drugs need to be informed of the danger of quick weight regain when the therapy concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a return to pre-treatment mass in about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise typically have a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Experts believe the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the amplified regain.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "underscore the chronic character of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Users who have discontinued the medication explain a intense return of hunger.
"I experienced a switch that goes on and you become ravenous," said one woman.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not established permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Interest
Survey data suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Use is more common among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, experts emphasize that while the jabs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success likely depends on ongoing behavioural changes.
