A recent study suggests that people who discontinue new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight far faster than those who end traditional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a leading health publication points out that while overweight people often shed a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People using such medications need to be cognizant of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the medication ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a return to starting weight in about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
The team point out that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise typically experience a less rapid creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Experts suggest the mechanism of the injections explains the amplified regain.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS suggest the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
Users who have discontinued the medication describe a sudden return of cravings.
"I experienced something flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said an individual.
This difficulty is worsened if patients have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Significant Interest
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts caution that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss hinges on combined lifestyle changes.
