New research indicates that individuals who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover lost weight much more quickly than those who halt conventional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals often shed about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People buying these treatments need to be cognizant of the potential of quick weight regain when the treatment ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a reversion to starting mass within about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The study, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists point out that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally see a less rapid creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the amplified regain.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "highlight the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
People who have discontinued the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and you're instantly ravenous," recalled an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Interest
Survey data suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Use is greater among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts emphasize that while these medications are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on combined lifestyle changes.
