A recent study reveals that patients who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a leading health publication demonstrates that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users using these medications need to be informed of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Therapies
The study, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically experience a slower creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the way of the jabs accounts for the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, due to the high risk of relapse, the therapy is often life-long.
This perspective is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "emphasize the chronic nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
People who have come off the jabs report a powerful return of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and you're instantly starving," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is worsened if users have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Interest
Figures suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss relies on integrated lifestyle support.
