A recent study reveals that patients who come off popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover lost weight far faster than those who halt traditional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a major health publication shows that while obese people frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users using these drugs must be aware of the danger of quick weight regain when the treatment concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about 18 months.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that people who lose weight through diet and exercise generally see a more gradual weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Doctors suggest the way of the injections is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities recommend the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, given the high risk of weight regain, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Testimonies
Users who have stopped the medication report a intense resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if something activating and I was suddenly starving," described a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not established lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Significant Use
Survey data show that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while these medications are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and lasting health benefits relies on combined behavioural changes.
