A recent study indicates that patients who come off popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds far faster than those who halt traditional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a major medical journal shows that while obese individuals often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People using these medications need to be informed of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to original mass in about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists point out that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a less rapid creep back—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Experts propose the way of the drugs explains the heightened weight return.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment is often ongoing.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "underscore the long-term character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
People who have come off the jabs explain a intense return of appetite.
"I experienced a switch flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if patients have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Significant Interest
Recent estimates show that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and long-term success relies on ongoing behavioural changes.
