New research indicates that individuals who stop using blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt traditional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a leading medical journal shows that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users buying such drugs should be cognizant of the risk of rapid weight regain when the treatment ends," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a reversion to original mass in about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
The team point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally have a less rapid creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Rapid Rebound
Experts suggest the way of the drugs explains the heightened rebound.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, given the high risk of weight regain, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "emphasize the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
People who have discontinued the medication describe a sudden return of hunger.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if patients have not established permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Figures indicate that a significant number of people 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 usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians caution that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and lasting health benefits hinges on combined lifestyle management.
