Fresh analysis suggests that people who come off blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a leading medical journal shows that while overweight people frequently drop substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users buying such treatments should be informed of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a return to original mass within about 18 months.
Analyzing Therapies
The study, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
The team point out that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally see a more gradual creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the injections accounts for the accelerated rebound.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than normal might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often ongoing.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "emphasize the persistent nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the medication describe a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and you become extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
The struggle is compounded if users have not established lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Use
Figures show that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Use is higher among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while these medications are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and lasting health benefits likely depends on integrated behavioural changes.
