New research suggests that people who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a leading health publication demonstrates that while obese individuals can lose a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People purchasing such treatments need to be informed of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to pre-treatment mass within about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
The team emphasize that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually experience a less rapid creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Experts believe the way of the injections accounts for the heightened regain.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Testimonies
Users who have stopped the medication describe a powerful return of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not established permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Figures show that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Use is higher among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians caution that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success relies on integrated behavioural changes.
