New research reveals that patients who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt conventional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a major health publication shows that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users using such treatments need to be aware of the danger of quick weight regain when the medication is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a return to starting weight within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Treatments
The analysis, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise usually have a slower creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the way of the injections accounts for the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities advise the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
People who have come off the jabs report a intense return of appetite.
"It was like a trigger flipping and you become starving," said a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not established lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates show that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, experts emphasize that while these medications are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and lasting health benefits hinges on combined lifestyle changes.
