Fresh analysis suggests that people who discontinue new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain reduced body mass far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a major medical journal shows that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People purchasing such treatments should be cognizant of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists emphasize that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically see a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the injections explains the heightened rebound.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
The NHS advise the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "underscore the persistent nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have come off the medication report a powerful return of cravings.
"It was like a switch flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," said an individual.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Use
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among females than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts caution that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and long-term success likely depends on combined lifestyle management.
