A recent study reveals that people who discontinue new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight far faster than those who halt conventional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a prominent health publication shows that while obese people frequently drop substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users using these medications need to be cognizant of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a reversion to starting mass in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Therapies
The study, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise generally experience a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Experts propose the mechanism of the jabs explains the amplified weight return.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal may cause the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "underscore the long-term character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the medication report a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a switch flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," described one woman.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not established permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Figures suggest that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and lasting health benefits hinges on ongoing lifestyle support.
