A recent study indicates that patients who discontinue popular weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight far faster than those who halt conventional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a prominent health publication points out that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users purchasing these drugs need to be cognizant of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The study, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Scientists point out that people who shed pounds through dieting typically see a more gradual creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Experts propose the way of the drugs accounts for the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this medication means appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "highlight the long-term character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have come off the medication explain a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Significant Use
Figures indicate that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Use is higher among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while these medications are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits relies on ongoing lifestyle changes.
