Fresh analysis reveals that patients who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass far faster than those who stop conventional lifestyle regimens.
Published data in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while obese people frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People buying such treatments need to be informed of the danger of fast weight regain when the medication is stopped," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to starting weight within about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which examined 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers note that people who shed pounds through dieting typically see a more gradual creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Experts believe the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement means hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "underscore the persistent nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
People who have discontinued the jabs explain a intense resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a switch activating and I was suddenly ravenous," described an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Use is greater among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while these medications are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural management.
