A recent study reveals that patients who stop using blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a major medical journal points out that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying these treatments should be cognizant of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Analyzing Therapies
The study, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
The team emphasize that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise usually see a more gradual creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists believe the way of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the treatment is often life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "underscore the persistent nature of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if something that goes on and you become starving," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Use
Figures suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while these medications are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and long-term success relies on combined lifestyle support.
