A recent study suggests that people who come off popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals buying such treatments need to be cognizant of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a return to starting mass within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team note that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically experience a more gradual creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the jabs accounts for the accelerated rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than normal might result in the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
The NHS suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy is often life-long.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "underscore the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the medication explain a sudden return of appetite.
"It was like something activating and you become extremely hungry," said a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if users have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Growing Interest
Survey data show that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Use is greater among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while the jabs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and lasting health benefits relies on combined lifestyle support.
