A recent study suggests that individuals who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users using these treatments must be cognizant of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a reversion to starting weight within about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a more gradual creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Doctors believe the mechanism of the jabs explains the amplified regain.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication means hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS advise the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "highlight the chronic character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs explain a intense resurgence of hunger.
"It was like something activating and you become extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
This challenge is worsened if users have not established permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Use
Survey data indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Use is higher among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts caution that while the jabs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss relies on integrated lifestyle management.
