A recent study suggests that people who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who end conventional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a prominent medical journal shows that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals using these treatments need to be informed of the risk of fast weight regain when the treatment is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a return to pre-treatment mass in about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers note that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually see a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Doctors believe the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
The injections copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels far above than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "underscore the persistent nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the medication describe a powerful return of cravings.
"I experienced something activating and you become ravenous," said one woman.
This challenge is worsened if patients have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while the jabs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated behavioural support.
