A recent study indicates that people who come off blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people often shed about a fifth 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.
"Individuals buying such treatments need to be aware of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a reversion to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The study, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually see a slower weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Experts believe the way of the injections explains the amplified regain.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS advise the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, given the high risk of weight regain, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "highlight the long-term character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Testimonies
Users who have discontinued the medication report a intense return of cravings.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and you're instantly starving," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is compounded if patients have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated lifestyle support.
