New research reveals that people who discontinue new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a major health publication demonstrates that while obese individuals often shed about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users using such medications must be cognizant of the danger of fast weight regain when the medication concludes," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a reversion to starting weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers note that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally see a more gradual creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Experts believe the mode of action of the jabs explains the amplified rebound.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
Health authorities advise the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "underscore the chronic nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
People who have come off the jabs explain a sudden return of cravings.
"I experienced a switch flipping and you become extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
This challenge is worsened if patients have not established lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Recent estimates suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while these medications are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and long-term success likely depends on combined behavioural changes.