Fresh analysis indicates that individuals who come off new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight far faster than those who stop conventional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal points out that while overweight individuals can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users purchasing such drugs need to be cognizant of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a return to pre-treatment mass in about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists point out that people who lose weight through dieting typically have a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mechanism of the injections explains the accelerated weight return.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "highlight the chronic character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
Users who have come off the medication explain a intense resurgence of hunger.
"It was like a switch activating and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not established permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Survey data suggest that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers caution that while the jabs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural changes.
