New research suggests that patients who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover lost weight much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a major health publication points out that while overweight people can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People using such treatments should be aware of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the medication ends," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a return to original mass within about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Scientists note that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a less rapid weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Doctors believe the mode of action of the jabs accounts for the heightened regain.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, given the high risk of weight regain, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "highlight the long-term character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Users who have stopped the jabs explain a intense return of hunger.
"It was like a switch flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," said an individual.
This challenge is compounded if users have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Survey data show that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians stress that while these medications are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing behavioural changes.
