A recent study suggests that people who stop using blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight far faster than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a leading medical journal shows that while obese people often shed a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People purchasing these treatments should be cognizant of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a reversion to original mass in about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically have a more gradual weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "emphasize the long-term character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Experiences
People who have come off the jabs report a sudden return of appetite.
"It was like a trigger flipping and you're instantly ravenous," described one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Use is greater among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined lifestyle changes.
