A recent study indicates that individuals who come off new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a prominent health publication points out that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People buying these drugs must be aware of the risk of fast weight regain when the treatment is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The research, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team point out that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Experts believe the mode of action of the injections explains the amplified regain.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication means appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Condition?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "underscore the chronic nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
People who have come off the jabs describe a intense resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a switch flipping and you become extremely hungry," described one woman.
This difficulty is exacerbated if patients have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Survey data indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss relies on combined behavioural changes.
