Fresh analysis suggests that people who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a leading health publication shows that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People purchasing these medications must be informed of the potential of fast weight regain when the treatment is stopped," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a return to pre-treatment mass in about one and a half years.
Comparing Approaches
The research, which examined 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through diet and exercise usually have a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mode of action of the drugs explains the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy is often long-term.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
People who have discontinued the medication describe a intense return of appetite.
"It felt as if something flipping and you're instantly ravenous," described a patient.
The struggle is worsened if users have not established permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Figures suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while the jabs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing lifestyle changes.
