New research reveals that people who come off popular GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who halt traditional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a leading health publication demonstrates that while overweight people can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the mass is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People buying such medications need to be informed of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a return to original mass in about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting usually have a slower weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the jabs accounts for the accelerated regain.
These medications copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "underscore the chronic character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
Users who have discontinued the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and you become ravenous," said an individual.
This difficulty is worsened if patients have not established permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Use
Survey data indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and long-term success relies on ongoing behavioural support.
