A recent study suggests that individuals who discontinue new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Users using such medications need to be informed of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to starting mass within about 18 months.
Analyzing Approaches
The research, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through dieting typically experience a more gradual creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Experts propose the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the heightened regain.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations 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 sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this medication results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
People who have discontinued the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and you become ravenous," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is compounded if patients have not established lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Interest
Figures show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while these medications are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing behavioural changes.
