A recent study suggests that patients who come off blockbuster weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese people often shed a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People buying such drugs must be aware of the potential of rapid weight regain when the medication is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to original weight within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Researchers point out that people who lose weight through dieting generally see a less rapid creep back—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Nutrition scientists believe the mode of action of the injections explains the amplified regain.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS recommend the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs report a intense return of cravings.
"I experienced something activating and I was suddenly starving," recalled an individual.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Use
Figures show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Use is more common among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while these medications are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on integrated behavioural support.
