A recent study reveals that patients who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a prominent medical journal points out that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals using such treatments should be informed of the risk of quick weight regain when the treatment ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about one and a half years.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists note that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally see a more gradual weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Experts propose the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "emphasize the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Experiences
Users who have stopped the jabs describe a intense resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a trigger flipping and you become extremely hungry," said a patient.
This difficulty is compounded if users have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Survey data suggest that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Use is higher among females than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts caution that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on integrated behavioural support.
