A recent study suggests that individuals who discontinue blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese individuals can lose a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users purchasing these drugs must be cognizant of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a return to original weight within about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that people who lose weight through diet and exercise generally see a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the drugs explains the amplified regain.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this medication means hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities advise the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the long-term nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the medication report a sudden return of appetite.
"I experienced something that goes on and you're instantly ravenous," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Use
Figures indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Use is higher among females than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss relies on combined lifestyle changes.
