Fresh analysis suggests that patients who come off new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a leading medical journal points out that while obese individuals often shed a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People purchasing these treatments need to be informed of the potential of rapid weight regain when the medication concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a reversion to original mass within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The study, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers note that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally have a slower creep back—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the injections explains the accelerated regain.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities suggest the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "highlight the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Experiences
People who have stopped the jabs report a intense return of cravings.
"It was like a switch flipping and you become extremely hungry," said a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Significant Interest
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and long-term success likely depends on integrated lifestyle management.
