A recent study indicates that individuals who discontinue new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who stop conventional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal shows that while overweight individuals can lose a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People using such medications must be cognizant of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The analysis, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically experience a less rapid weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Doctors believe the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the amplified weight return.
The injections copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
People who have stopped the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a switch activating and I was suddenly starving," described an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Recent estimates suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is more common among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, experts emphasize that while the jabs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated lifestyle changes.
