Fresh analysis reveals that patients who come off popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover shed pounds far faster than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a leading medical journal points out that while obese individuals often shed about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users buying such medications must be cognizant of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a return to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which examined dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Researchers point out that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically experience a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Doctors propose the way of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Users who have discontinued the jabs describe a sudden return of appetite.
"It was like something activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts caution that while these medications are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss hinges on integrated lifestyle management.
