New research suggests that individuals who discontinue new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who halt conventional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while overweight individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People buying these treatments should be aware of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a return to original weight within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the results of these new drugs with older methods.
Researchers point out that people who shed pounds through dieting usually experience a slower weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mechanism of the injections accounts for the accelerated regain.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "underscore the chronic nature of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Accounts
Users who have come off the medication explain a intense resurgence of cravings.
"It was like something that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled an individual.
The struggle is compounded if patients have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Significant Use
Figures suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss relies on integrated behavioural support.
