A recent study indicates that people who discontinue blockbuster weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who halt conventional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a major health publication demonstrates that while obese individuals often shed about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People buying such treatments need to be cognizant of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Therapies
The research, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers point out that people who lose weight through diet and exercise generally experience a slower creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Experts propose the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the amplified regain.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "underscore the chronic character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Accounts
Users who have come off the medication report a intense return of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and you're instantly ravenous," recalled one woman.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians emphasize that while these medications are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and lasting health benefits hinges on ongoing behavioural changes.
