New research reveals that people who come off new weight-loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while overweight individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People buying such medications need to be cognizant of the danger of rapid weight regain when the treatment is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a reversion to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually have a slower weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Doctors believe the mechanism of the drugs explains the heightened regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy is often ongoing.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the persistent nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Accounts
People who have come off the medication explain a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a switch flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said one woman.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates show that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is greater among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, experts stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and lasting health benefits likely depends on integrated lifestyle changes.
