Fresh analysis indicates that people who come off popular GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover lost weight far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a leading health publication points out that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People buying such treatments must be aware of the danger of quick weight regain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to starting mass in about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise usually have a more gradual weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Doctors propose the way of the injections explains the amplified weight return.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS advise the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "highlight the long-term nature of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the jabs explain a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced something that goes on and you're instantly ravenous," said a patient.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not established permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Significant Use
Survey data indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts caution that while the jabs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural support.
