A recent study indicates that people who come off popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who halt conventional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while overweight individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users purchasing such drugs need to be cognizant of the potential of quick weight regain when the therapy is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a reversion to starting mass in about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally experience a more gradual weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Doctors suggest the way of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the medication report a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if something flipping and you're instantly starving," said a patient.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Survey data indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Use is greater among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians stress that while the jabs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and lasting health benefits relies on combined behavioural changes.
