A recent study reveals that individuals who discontinue popular GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt traditional lifestyle regimens.
Published data in a leading health publication shows that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People using such treatments must be informed of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a return to starting mass in about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The research, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists emphasize that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically see a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Experts believe the mechanism of the drugs explains the heightened regain.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS advise the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the therapy is often life-long.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "underscore the chronic nature of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Accounts
Users who have come off the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It was like a switch flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," described an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if patients have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Survey data indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and long-term success hinges on ongoing lifestyle changes.
