A recent study reveals that patients who come off popular GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who end conventional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying such medications should be informed of the potential of fast weight regain when the treatment concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a return to pre-treatment weight in about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers note that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically have a less rapid weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the way of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal might result in the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "highlight the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
People who have stopped the jabs describe a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if something flipping and I was suddenly starving," said an individual.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Use
Figures suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is higher among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss hinges on integrated lifestyle management.
