Fresh analysis suggests that people who come off blockbuster weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a prominent health publication shows that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People buying such medications need to be informed of the potential of quick weight regain when the therapy ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a return to original weight within about 18 months.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting usually see a less rapid creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Doctors believe the way of the jabs explains the amplified weight return.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
A Chronic Issue?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "emphasize the chronic character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
People who have discontinued the jabs explain a intense return of hunger.
"It was like a trigger activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," described one woman.
This difficulty is compounded if users have not established lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while these medications are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss relies on combined behavioural management.
