New research reveals that individuals who discontinue blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover shed pounds much more quickly than those who end conventional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People buying these treatments must be informed of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a reversion to starting weight in about 18 months.
Analyzing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually have a more gradual creep back—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists believe the way of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than normal might result in the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the chronic nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
People who have stopped the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and you become ravenous," recalled an individual.
The struggle is worsened if individuals have not established permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while these medications are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and lasting health benefits hinges on combined lifestyle changes.
