Fresh analysis reveals that patients who come off blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a major health publication demonstrates that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People buying such medications must be informed of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a return to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally see a more gradual creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Experts propose the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities recommend the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the therapy is often ongoing.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
People who have come off the jabs report a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"It was like something flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," described a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Figures indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined behavioural changes.
