New research suggests that people who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt conventional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users buying these drugs need to be informed of the potential of rapid weight regain when the medication ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to starting mass in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
The team emphasize that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically see a slower creep back—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the jabs explains the amplified regain.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment is often long-term.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "highlight the persistent nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
People who have stopped the medication describe a sudden return of hunger.
"I experienced something that goes on and you become starving," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is worsened if users have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Use
Figures indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Use is higher among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts caution that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss relies on combined lifestyle changes.
