A recent study 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 traditional lifestyle regimens.
Published data in a major medical journal shows that while overweight individuals often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People purchasing such treatments need to be aware of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a return to starting weight within about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of these new drugs with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally have a more gradual weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Doctors propose the mechanism of the injections explains the accelerated rebound.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
People who have discontinued the jabs describe a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced something that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Significant Interest
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among females than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing lifestyle changes.
