Fresh analysis indicates that patients who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight far faster than those who stop conventional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a leading health publication shows that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Users purchasing such drugs need to be aware of the potential of fast weight regain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a return to original weight in about 18 months.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
The team note that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally have a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Rapid Rebound
Doctors propose the mechanism of the jabs explains the amplified regain.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this medication means hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
The NHS advise the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "emphasize the chronic character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Accounts
Users who have stopped the medication describe a powerful return of hunger.
"I experienced a switch flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," said a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Figures suggest that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, experts emphasize that while these medications are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and lasting health benefits hinges on integrated lifestyle management.
