A recent study suggests that patients who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a major health publication demonstrates that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People buying these treatments must be aware of the potential of quick weight regain when the therapy is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a return to starting weight within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists point out that people who shed pounds through dieting usually have a slower creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mechanism of the drugs explains the heightened regain.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "highlight the chronic character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Testimonies
People who have come off the jabs explain a powerful return of hunger.
"It was like something that goes on and you're instantly starving," described one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Use
Survey data suggest that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Use is more common among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success likely depends on combined behavioural support.
