Fresh analysis indicates that patients who stop using new weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who stop conventional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released 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 is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People buying these treatments must be informed of the risk of rapid weight regain when the medication ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which reviewed dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with older methods.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through dieting typically experience a more gradual weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the jabs explains the amplified regain.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than normal may cause the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
The NHS advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, given the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "emphasize the persistent nature of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
Users who have come off the jabs describe a intense resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and you become ravenous," described one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Significant Use
Survey data indicate that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while these medications are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss hinges on combined lifestyle management.
