Fresh analysis reveals that people who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds far faster than those who end conventional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a prominent health publication shows that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People using such treatments need to be aware of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a reversion to original mass within about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally have a less rapid creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Experts believe the mode of action of the injections explains the accelerated regain.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, given the high risk of weight regain, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "highlight the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the medication describe a intense return of hunger.
"I experienced something activating and you're instantly ravenous," said a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Survey data indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while these medications are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and long-term success hinges on combined lifestyle changes.
