New research indicates that patients who discontinue popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover shed pounds much more quickly than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese individuals often shed a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals using such drugs need to be aware of the risk of fast weight regain when the treatment is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a reversion to original mass in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Scientists point out that individuals who shed pounds through dieting typically see a more gradual weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Experts suggest the mode of action of the injections explains the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels far above than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication means hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities advise the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the therapy is often life-long.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
People who have stopped the jabs report a intense resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," described an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not established permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates show that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers caution that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing behavioural changes.
