New research suggests that individuals who stop using blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight far faster than those who end conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals purchasing such treatments need to be informed of the risk of fast weight regain when the treatment concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a return to starting mass within about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team point out that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a more gradual creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Experts suggest the way of the jabs accounts for the accelerated rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement means appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment is often long-term.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have come off the jabs explain a sudden return of cravings.
"It was like a trigger that goes on and you're instantly starving," described an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not established lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Use is greater among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians caution that while these medications are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on combined lifestyle support.
