A recent study suggests that patients who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a leading health publication shows that while overweight individuals often shed a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals buying such treatments need to be cognizant of the risk of fast weight regain when the treatment ends," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a return to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The research, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through dieting typically have a more gradual creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Experts believe the mechanism of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal might result in the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this medication means appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS suggest the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
People who have come off the jabs describe a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and you're instantly starving," described an individual.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Recent estimates suggest that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Use is higher among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and lasting health benefits likely depends on integrated lifestyle management.
