New research reveals that people who discontinue popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a major medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals often shed about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users buying these drugs must be aware of the potential of quick weight regain when the treatment ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a reversion to original weight within about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise usually have a more gradual weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the mechanism of the drugs explains the accelerated rebound.
The injections copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than normal might result in the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making overeating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, given the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "emphasize the long-term character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
People who have come off the jabs report a intense return of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and you're instantly extremely hungry," described an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not established permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Use is higher among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts caution that while these medications are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing behavioural management.
