Fresh analysis indicates that individuals who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users using these drugs must be informed of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about 18 months.
Analyzing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
The team note that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually have a less rapid creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Experts suggest the mode of action of the injections explains the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities advise the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy is often life-long.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "highlight the long-term nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have come off the jabs describe a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if something flipping and you become ravenous," said one woman.
The struggle is compounded if patients have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Significant Use
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers stress that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on integrated lifestyle management.
