Fresh analysis reveals that patients who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a prominent health publication points out that while obese individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals purchasing such medications should be informed of the potential of rapid weight regain when the medication is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a return to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers note that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually have a more gradual creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Experts propose the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "highlight the long-term nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have come off the jabs report a intense return of appetite.
"It was like something flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," said an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Figures indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians stress that while these medications are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and long-term success hinges on integrated behavioural changes.
