A recent study suggests that patients who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a major health publication demonstrates that while overweight people can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users buying such medications must be aware of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which examined dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team point out that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually have a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Experts suggest the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the amplified weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities advise the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "underscore the persistent nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Testimonies
Users who have stopped the jabs report a sudden return of hunger.
"It was like a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly starving," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if users have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Figures indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while these medications are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success relies on integrated lifestyle changes.
