New research indicates that people who come off blockbuster weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight far faster than those who halt traditional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a major health publication points out that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users using these drugs should be cognizant of the potential of quick weight regain when the treatment is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to starting mass within about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team note that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually have a less rapid creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Experts propose the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
Users who have discontinued the medication describe a sudden return of appetite.
"It was like something activating and you're instantly ravenous," recalled one woman.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Use
Survey data show that millions of adults in the UK have tried 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 highest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing behavioural management.
