New research reveals that individuals who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight far faster than those who end conventional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals buying such drugs should be informed of the risk of quick weight regain when the medication concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a reversion to original weight within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically see a slower creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the amplified rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Condition?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "underscore the persistent character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Testimonies
Users who have discontinued the jabs explain a powerful return of cravings.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and you become extremely hungry," described an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Significant Use
Recent estimates suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined behavioural changes.
