New research indicates that patients who stop using blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who stop traditional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal points out that while obese individuals often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals buying these medications must be informed of the danger of rapid weight regain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a reversion to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers note that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a slower creep back—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Doctors propose the mechanism of the drugs explains the accelerated rebound.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "underscore the long-term character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs describe a intense return of appetite.
"It was like something that goes on and you become ravenous," described a patient.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and long-term success relies on ongoing behavioural changes.
