A recent study suggests that individuals who come off new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop conventional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a leading health publication shows that while overweight individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People purchasing such treatments need to be informed of the danger of rapid weight regain when the treatment is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which reviewed dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team note that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally see a slower weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this medication means hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy is often ongoing.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the persistent nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the medication report a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch activating and you're instantly ravenous," described one woman.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on combined behavioural changes.
