Fresh analysis suggests that people who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight far faster than those who stop traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a prominent health publication points out that while overweight individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People buying these drugs must be aware of the risk of quick weight regain when the therapy ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a return to pre-treatment mass in about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The research, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who lose weight through dieting typically have a more gradual weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS recommend the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, given the high risk of weight regain, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "emphasize the chronic nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
People who have discontinued the jabs explain a intense return of cravings.
"I experienced a switch activating and you become extremely hungry," described a patient.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Figures indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while these medications are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success likely depends on ongoing lifestyle support.
