New research suggests that patients who discontinue blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who halt traditional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a prominent medical journal points out that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals buying these medications need to be cognizant of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting usually experience a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Doctors propose the mechanism of the drugs explains the heightened regain.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS recommend the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "highlight the chronic character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
People who have stopped the medication describe a intense resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a switch flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," described one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Growing Use
Figures indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among women than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss hinges on integrated lifestyle changes.
