A recent study indicates that patients who stop using new weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a major medical journal points out that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People purchasing these medications need to be cognizant of the potential of fast weight regain when the treatment concludes," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a return to starting mass in about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through dieting typically have a more gradual weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Experts propose the way of the drugs explains the amplified regain.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "highlight the persistent character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
Individuals who have come off the medication report a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It was like a switch that goes on and you become ravenous," said an individual.
This challenge is worsened if users have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Use is greater among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on integrated behavioural changes.
