A recent study reveals that individuals who stop using blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt traditional lifestyle regimens.
Published data in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals purchasing these medications need to be informed of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a return to pre-treatment mass within about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with other pills.
Scientists note that people who lose weight through diet and exercise generally see a more gradual weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Experts propose the mechanism of the jabs explains the amplified regain.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this medication leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Issue?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "underscore the persistent nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have stopped the medication describe a intense return of appetite.
"It was like a switch activating and you're instantly ravenous," recalled one woman.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Survey data indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Use is more common among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and long-term success likely depends on ongoing behavioural changes.
