New research indicates that patients who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a major medical journal shows that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People using such treatments should be informed of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to pre-treatment weight in about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Scientists point out that people who shed pounds through dieting usually see a less rapid weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Experts suggest the way of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, given the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It was like a switch activating and I was suddenly ravenous," said a patient.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Significant Use
Figures suggest that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among women than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss hinges on combined lifestyle changes.
