New research reveals that patients who stop using popular weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who end traditional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users purchasing such treatments must be informed of the potential of rapid weight regain when the therapy ends," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to pre-treatment mass within about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that people who lose weight through dieting typically have a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Experts propose the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the heightened regain.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this medication results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the treatment is often ongoing.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "underscore the chronic nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Experiences
Users who have stopped the medication explain a sudden return of cravings.
"It was like a switch activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," said one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Use is higher among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while these medications are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and lasting health benefits relies on integrated lifestyle support.
