New research suggests that individuals who stop using blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight individuals can lose about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People buying these treatments must be cognizant of the danger of fast weight regain when the treatment is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Comparing Approaches
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists note that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise usually see a more gradual creep back—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Experts propose the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than normal might result in the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the therapy is often long-term.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "emphasize the persistent character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Experiences
Individuals who have come off the medication report a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced something flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," described an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Survey data indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Use is greater among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts stress that while these medications are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss relies on combined behavioural changes.
