A recent study reveals that patients who stop using blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover shed pounds far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a major health publication shows that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals purchasing these drugs need to be aware of the potential of fast weight regain when the medication concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a return to pre-treatment mass within about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of these new drugs with older methods.
Researchers note that people who lose weight through diet and exercise generally have a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Experts believe the way of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the persistent character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the medication describe a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if something flipping and you become starving," described an individual.
This challenge is worsened if users have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and lasting health benefits hinges on ongoing lifestyle changes.
