New research suggests that individuals who come off new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover lost weight far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a leading medical journal shows that while obese individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users using these medications must be aware of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to starting weight within about 18 months.
Analyzing Approaches
The research, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers note that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally have a less rapid creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Doctors propose the mode of action of the jabs explains the amplified regain.
The injections copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels far above than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
Health authorities recommend the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "underscore the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the medication report a intense resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a switch that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," said an individual.
The struggle is compounded if users have not established permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts emphasize that while these medications are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined behavioural support.
