A recent study suggests that individuals who discontinue blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover lost weight much more quickly than those who end traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a leading health publication points out that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users using these drugs need to be aware of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a reversion to original weight in about a year and a half.
Comparing Approaches
The research, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of these new drugs with other pills.
The team note that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically experience a less rapid weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Experts believe the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the heightened regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this medication leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
The NHS advise the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
Individuals who have come off the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It was like a trigger activating and you become ravenous," described an individual.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Figures show that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural management.
