A recent study indicates that people who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover lost weight much more quickly than those who halt traditional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a major health publication demonstrates that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users buying such drugs must be informed of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a return to original mass in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The analysis, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually see a more gradual weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the mode of action of the drugs explains the heightened rebound.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "highlight the long-term nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
People who have come off the jabs describe a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a switch flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said an individual.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Figures indicate that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Use is higher among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts caution that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on integrated behavioural changes.
