A recent study suggests that individuals who discontinue blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end conventional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a major medical journal shows that while overweight individuals often shed a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users using these treatments should be aware of the danger of fast weight regain when the therapy concludes," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to pre-treatment mass in about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers note that individuals who lose weight through dieting typically experience a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the drugs explains the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities advise the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the persistent character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have come off the medication describe a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a trigger flipping and you become ravenous," said one woman.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among females than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing lifestyle support.
