New research suggests that people who come off new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt conventional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a major medical journal points out that while overweight people often shed a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users buying these drugs must be informed of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a return to pre-treatment mass within about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through dieting typically experience a less rapid creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the accelerated weight return.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy is often ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "highlight the long-term nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Users who have come off the jabs explain a powerful return of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," described an individual.
The struggle is compounded if users have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Recent estimates show that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while the jabs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing lifestyle changes.
