A recent study reveals that people who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a leading medical journal shows that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users using these drugs should be cognizant of the risk of fast weight regain when the therapy ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a return to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through dieting generally experience a more gradual weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Experts suggest the mode of action of the drugs explains the accelerated weight return.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication means appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, given the high risk of weight regain, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the long-term character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
Users who have come off the medication report a powerful return of hunger.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and you become extremely hungry," said an individual.
The struggle is compounded if patients have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Recent estimates suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is higher among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing behavioural changes.
