Fresh analysis suggests that individuals who stop using new weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who end traditional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a prominent health publication shows that while obese individuals can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People purchasing such treatments must be cognizant of the potential of quick weight regain when the treatment ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a reversion to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that people who shed pounds through dieting typically have a less rapid creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Experts suggest the mode of action of the injections accounts for the heightened regain.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Condition?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy is often life-long.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the persistent character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
People who have come off the jabs explain a sudden return of appetite.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly starving," recalled one woman.
This challenge is worsened if users have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Use is more common among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined lifestyle management.
