New research reveals that individuals who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover lost weight far faster than those who end conventional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People buying these medications must be informed of the potential of fast weight regain when the treatment ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a return to pre-treatment weight within about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically experience a less rapid creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Rapid Rebound
Doctors believe the mode of action of the jabs accounts for the amplified rebound.
These medications copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, given the likelihood of relapse, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
People who have come off the medication describe a sudden return of cravings.
"It felt as if a switch activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," described a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Figures show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing lifestyle support.
