New research reveals that people who discontinue blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt traditional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese people frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the weight is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users buying such medications should be aware of the danger of rapid weight regain when the treatment is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a reversion to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The research, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team note that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a less rapid creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the mode of action of the injections explains the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS advise the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the therapy is often ongoing.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "emphasize the long-term character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
People who have stopped the jabs explain a sudden return of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger activating and I was suddenly starving," described an individual.
This challenge is compounded if users have not established lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Interest
Survey data show that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success relies on ongoing behavioural changes.
