A recent study indicates that individuals who stop using blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a leading health publication shows that while obese people frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People using these medications should be informed of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a reversion to original mass in about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The study, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
Scientists note that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the accelerated rebound.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this medication means hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities advise the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "emphasize the long-term character of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
People who have discontinued the medication explain a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"It was like a trigger flipping and you become extremely hungry," said a patient.
The struggle is compounded if users have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Significant Use
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while the jabs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing behavioural support.
