New research indicates that patients who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a major medical journal points out that while overweight individuals often shed about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People using such treatments need to be cognizant of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a return to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The analysis, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with other pills.
The team point out that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically experience a slower weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Experts believe the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the amplified weight return.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, given the high risk of weight regain, the treatment is often life-long.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "underscore the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs report a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if a switch flipping and you're instantly ravenous," described a patient.
This challenge is compounded if users have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts stress that while the jabs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss relies on integrated lifestyle changes.
