New Delhi: A recent study by Oxford University has revealed a significant challenge facing those who use popular weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro—regaining lost weight shortly after discontinuing treatment. Despite their remarkable short-term slimming effects, these GLP-1 agonist drugs may not offer lasting weight loss without long-term use and lifestyle changes.
How long does it take for weight loss to relapse?
The research, presented at the European Congress on Obesity, analyzed weight trends in 6,370 individuals from 11 separate studies. Results showed that within one year and eight months of stopping medications such as Wegovy or Mounjaro, users regained an average of 9.6kg (1st 7lbs). This trajectory puts them on course to recover nearly 16.1kg (2st 7lbs)—the amount typically lost during treatment—within two years of stopping the injections.
Participants who had been using old GLP-1 drugs like liraglutide witnessed the weighing scale bend to the right much faster, with their baseline weight returning to what it was within 10 to 11 months. The findings also emphasise that while the drugs are effective, their effects will be only temporary without appropriate lifestyle changes.
Holistic way to lose weight
Professor Susan Jebb, who led the study, stated, “These drugs are very effective at helping people lose weight, but once the treatment ends, the weight tends to return faster than with traditional dieting.” She stressed the importance of viewing these medications not as a short-term fix but potentially as a long-term treatment strategy. “People must either commit to continued medication use or be prepared for structured support when coming off it,” she added.
In the UK, NHS guidelines currently limit prescription of these drugs to a maximum of two years. During that time, patients are expected to receive dietary advice and regular monitoring. A large group of users obtain the medication over the counter, without obtaining a prescription or without support or guidance from a doctor. This increases the odds of weight gain. Experts say that the injections are not magic bullets for weight loss, and that the goal must be obtained by relying on proper lifestyle changes. Experts also say that combining behavioural therapy, nutritional counselling, and physical activity is a must for sustainable benefits.
Researchers note that GLP-1 injections are gaining popularity rapidly, and the study’s findings are a vital reminder that the drugs are effective in jumpstarting weight loss, but they are not the one and only solution. Sustainable weight loss relies on a holistic approach that combines lifestyle changes and medical intervention alike. With more and more people turning to these drugs for weight loss, it is imperative to spread awareness about them and educate people about the importance of healthy eating and regular workouts to sustain weight loss goals.
Participants who had been using old GLP-1 drugs like liraglutide witnessed the weighing scale bend to the right much faster, with their baseline weight returning to what it was within 10 to 11 months. The findings also emphasise that while the drugs are effective, their effects will be only temporary without appropriate lifestyle changes. Medicine Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
