New research suggests that individuals who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a major health publication shows that while obese individuals often shed about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying such treatments need to be informed of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to original mass within about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Scientists note that people who lose weight through dieting generally experience a slower creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Doctors propose the way of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
These medications copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
The NHS recommend the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "highlight the long-term character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Accounts
People who have stopped the medication report a sudden return of hunger.
"I experienced a switch that goes on and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled one woman.
This difficulty is worsened if users have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Interest
Survey data suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing lifestyle changes.
