A recent study reveals that people who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain reduced body mass far faster than those who halt traditional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a major medical journal points out that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals buying such drugs must be informed of the danger of fast weight regain when the medication concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about one and a half years.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
The team point out that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a less rapid creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Doctors propose the mode of action of the jabs accounts for the amplified weight return.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Accounts
People who have discontinued the medication explain a intense return of cravings.
"It was like something flipping and you become ravenous," described one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while these medications are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and lasting health benefits relies on ongoing lifestyle management.
