Fresh analysis indicates that people who stop using blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal points out that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People using such treatments should be informed of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally have a more gradual creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Experts propose the way of the injections is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, given the high risk of weight regain, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "underscore the chronic character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the jabs explain a sudden return of appetite.
"I experienced a switch activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said a patient.
The struggle is worsened if users have not established lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Use
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians caution that while these medications are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing behavioural management.
