New research reveals that individuals who discontinue blockbuster weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while overweight individuals can lose a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People purchasing these medications must be aware of the risk of fast weight regain when the medication is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a return to pre-treatment mass within about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists note that people who lose weight through dieting usually see a more gradual creep back—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Experts propose the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated rebound.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "highlight the chronic character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the jabs report a sudden return of cravings.
"It was like something activating and you become extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Survey data indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts caution that while the jabs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated behavioural management.
