A recent study suggests that patients who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a leading medical journal points out that while obese people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People using such medications must be cognizant of the danger of rapid weight regain when the therapy concludes," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to starting weight within about one and a half years.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through dieting typically see a less rapid weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Experts believe the way of the drugs accounts for the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than normal might result in the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Condition?
The NHS recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "underscore the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Accounts
Users who have come off the jabs report a intense return of cravings.
"It was like a trigger that goes on and you become ravenous," recalled a patient.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not established permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Interest
Survey data indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Use is higher among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while these medications are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and long-term success relies on combined behavioural changes.
