A recent study indicates that people who discontinue new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass far faster than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a prominent health publication points out that while overweight individuals often shed about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People using such medications must be informed of the potential of rapid weight regain when the medication is stopped," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to pre-treatment mass within about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of these new drugs with older methods.
Researchers point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally have a slower creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated rebound.
These medications copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy is often long-term.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the long-term character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
Users who have stopped the medication report a intense resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced something flipping and you're instantly ravenous," recalled one woman.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not established permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Interest
Figures indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Use is higher among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts caution that while these medications are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural support.
