New research indicates that people who come off blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a leading medical journal shows that while obese individuals often shed about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users buying these treatments should be cognizant of the risk of rapid weight regain when the treatment concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a return to pre-treatment weight in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The analysis, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team point out that individuals who shed pounds through dieting generally see a more gradual weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Experts believe the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the amplified weight return.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this medication results in hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment is often life-long.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "highlight the persistent character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Accounts
People who have stopped the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"It was like a switch activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates show that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is higher among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and long-term success relies on combined lifestyle support.
