A recent study reveals that people who come off popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional lifestyle programs.
Research printed 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 comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals buying such medications need to be cognizant of the risk of quick weight regain when the therapy concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to original mass in about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Scientists point out that people who lose weight through diet and exercise generally see a less rapid weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Experts suggest the way of the injections is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this medication means hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "emphasize the chronic nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Testimonies
People who have discontinued the medication describe a intense resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if something that goes on and you become extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not established permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Survey data show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among females than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while these medications are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss relies on integrated behavioural changes.
