New research reveals that patients who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt conventional lifestyle regimens.
Published data in a leading medical journal points out that while obese individuals often shed a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People buying such treatments need to be cognizant of the danger of fast weight regain when the medication ends," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a reversion to original weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The research, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists note that people who lose weight through diet and exercise typically experience a less rapid creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Doctors believe the mode of action of the jabs explains the accelerated rebound.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "highlight the persistent character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
Users who have discontinued the jabs report a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"It was like something that goes on and you become extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
The struggle is compounded if patients have not established lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Use
Figures indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is more common among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while these medications are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits relies on combined lifestyle changes.
