A recent study reveals that people who come off new weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users purchasing such drugs must be aware of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a reversion to original mass within about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team note that people who shed pounds through dieting typically have a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Experts suggest the way of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this medication results in hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Issue?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, given the high risk of relapse, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "highlight the chronic nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
People who have come off the medication describe a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," described one woman.
This challenge is compounded if users have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Interest
Survey data show that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts caution that while the jabs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and lasting health benefits hinges on integrated lifestyle changes.
