New research reveals that patients who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who halt conventional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a leading medical journal shows that while overweight individuals often shed about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People using such medications need to be informed of the danger of quick weight regain when the treatment ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a reversion to starting mass in about a year and a half.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers note that people who lose weight through dieting usually have a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Experts suggest the mode of action of the drugs explains the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement means appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "underscore the chronic nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
Individuals who have come off the jabs explain a intense resurgence of appetite.
"It was like something flipping and you're instantly starving," recalled one woman.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not established permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Interest
Survey data show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts emphasize that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss relies on integrated lifestyle support.
