New research indicates that patients who discontinue popular GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who halt traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users using such drugs need to be aware of the danger of rapid weight regain when the medication ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Scientists point out that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally see a slower creep back—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Understanding the Rapid Rebound
Experts believe the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the amplified rebound.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "underscore the long-term character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Users who have stopped the jabs explain a intense return of appetite.
"I experienced something that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians caution that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits hinges on ongoing lifestyle changes.
