New research reveals that patients who discontinue new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who halt conventional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a major medical journal points out that while overweight people can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals purchasing these medications must be cognizant of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a return to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with older methods.
The team emphasize that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually have a more gradual weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the accelerated regain.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities suggest the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "emphasize the chronic nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
People who have discontinued the medication describe a intense resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a switch activating and you're instantly starving," said a patient.
The struggle is worsened if users have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Interest
Survey data suggest that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while these medications are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural changes.
