A recent study suggests that patients who discontinue blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight far faster than those who stop conventional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a major medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals purchasing such treatments should be aware of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a reversion to original weight within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The analysis, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally experience a less rapid creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the injections explains the accelerated regain.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Issue?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often ongoing.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "underscore the long-term character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Experiences
Users who have come off the medication report a sudden return of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and you're instantly starving," recalled one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, experts emphasize that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing lifestyle support.
