A recent study reveals that patients who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while obese individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals using these medications need to be cognizant of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a return to starting weight within about one and a half years.
Comparing Approaches
The research, which examined dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Researchers note that people who lose weight through dieting generally see a less rapid weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Experts believe the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
The NHS recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "underscore the chronic character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Experiences
People who have stopped the jabs report a intense return of hunger.
"I experienced something that goes on and you become starving," said an individual.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Use is more common among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers stress that while the jabs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and long-term success relies on ongoing behavioural changes.
