A recent study indicates that individuals who stop using popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a leading medical journal points out that while obese people frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals using such medications need to be cognizant of the potential of rapid weight regain when the treatment concludes," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a return to original weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team point out that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually have a less rapid creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Doctors believe the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the heightened rebound.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this medication means appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS recommend the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, due to the high risk of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Experiences
Users who have come off the medication explain a intense return of cravings.
"It was like a switch activating and you're instantly ravenous," described an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among females than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and lasting health benefits hinges on ongoing lifestyle support.
