A recent study suggests that people who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt traditional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a major health publication demonstrates that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals buying such treatments should be cognizant of the potential of fast weight regain when the therapy concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to original mass within about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually have a less rapid weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the way of the jabs explains the heightened rebound.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities recommend the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "emphasize the long-term nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have stopped the jabs describe a intense resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and I was suddenly ravenous," said an individual.
The struggle is compounded if patients have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Widespread Use
Figures suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Use is higher among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success hinges on integrated lifestyle changes.
