Fresh analysis suggests that people who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt traditional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal points out that while obese individuals often shed a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals using such drugs must be informed of the potential of rapid weight regain when the therapy ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists emphasize that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually experience a more gradual creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Doctors believe the way of the drugs is key to understanding the amplified weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy is often life-long.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "underscore the chronic character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have discontinued the medication explain a intense return of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and you become starving," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if patients have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Interest
Survey data suggest that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Use is higher among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while these medications are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing lifestyle changes.
