New research suggests that individuals who stop using blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a major health publication points out that while obese people frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users using such drugs should be aware of the risk of quick weight regain when the treatment is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a reversion to starting mass within about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually see a slower creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Experts suggest the way of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the persistent character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Accounts
Users who have come off the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced something that goes on and you're instantly ravenous," said a patient.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Figures show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts caution that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural changes.
