A recent study reveals that individuals who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users buying these medications need to be informed of the risk of fast weight regain when the medication ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
The team note that people who shed pounds through dieting generally have a less rapid creep back—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Experts believe the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "highlight the long-term nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
People who have come off the jabs report a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a switch activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Survey data suggest 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 than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and lasting health benefits relies on combined behavioural management.
