Fresh analysis suggests that individuals who stop using blockbuster weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover reduced body mass far faster than those who stop traditional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users purchasing such medications need to be informed of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a return to starting weight within about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers point out that people who shed pounds through dieting typically have a slower creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the mode of action of the injections explains the amplified weight return.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities advise the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, given the high risk of relapse, the therapy is often life-long.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "underscore the chronic character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have stopped the medication report a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced something activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Use
Survey data show that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians caution that while the jabs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits hinges on ongoing behavioural changes.
