Fresh analysis suggests that people who stop using new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People using such medications need to be cognizant of the danger of rapid weight regain when the therapy is stopped," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a reversion to starting mass in about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Researchers note that individuals who shed pounds through dieting generally have a less rapid weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Doctors believe the mode of action of the drugs explains the heightened regain.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the treatment is often ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the chronic character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Experiences
Users who have stopped the medication report a powerful return of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and you become ravenous," described an individual.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Figures suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians emphasize that while these medications are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and long-term success relies on combined lifestyle changes.
