Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight individuals often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals buying these drugs must be cognizant of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to pre-treatment weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
The team emphasize that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally have a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Experts propose the mechanism of the jabs explains the amplified rebound.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
A Chronic Condition?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "highlight the persistent character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have come off the medication report a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly starving," described an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Survey data show that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while the jabs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss relies on combined behavioural support.
