New research suggests that patients who come off popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who end traditional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a major health publication points out that while overweight individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People using such treatments need to be aware of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a reversion to original weight within about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically experience a less rapid creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated rebound.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Condition?
The NHS advise the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "emphasize the long-term character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
People who have stopped the jabs report a intense return of cravings.
"It was like a trigger activating and I was suddenly starving," described an individual.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Significant Interest
Survey data indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success hinges on combined lifestyle management.
