Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who come off blockbuster weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who end traditional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight people frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users purchasing these treatments should be informed of the risk of quick weight regain when the therapy ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to original weight in about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
The team note that people who lose weight through dieting usually experience a more gradual creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Experts propose the way of the drugs accounts for the accelerated rebound.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "emphasize the chronic character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have come off the jabs report a intense return of cravings.
"It was like something activating and you're instantly ravenous," described one woman.
The struggle is worsened if individuals have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Interest
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Use is greater among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians emphasize that while these medications are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and long-term success hinges on combined lifestyle management.
