Fresh analysis suggests that people who come off blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover shed pounds far faster than those who stop traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal points out that while overweight people frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People using these treatments should be aware of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a return to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting generally have a slower creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Doctors propose the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the heightened regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "highlight the persistent nature of obesity," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Experiences
People who have stopped the medication explain a sudden return of appetite.
"It was like a trigger activating and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled a patient.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Figures show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians caution that while the jabs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and lasting health benefits hinges on integrated lifestyle support.
