A recent study indicates that patients who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight far faster than those who end conventional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a leading medical journal points out that while obese people can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals using these drugs must be aware of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a reversion to starting weight within about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through dieting usually have a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS advise the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "emphasize the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
Individuals who have come off the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and you become ravenous," said a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Survey data show that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts emphasize that while these medications are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and lasting health benefits hinges on integrated lifestyle support.
