New research suggests that patients who come off popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt traditional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a major health publication shows that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users buying such drugs should be informed of the risk of fast weight regain when the therapy is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery means a reversion to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of these new drugs with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually have a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Experts believe the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the heightened regain.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Condition?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "emphasize the persistent nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the jabs explain a sudden return of cravings.
"I experienced something activating and you're instantly starving," described a patient.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Figures show that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing lifestyle management.
