A recent study reveals that individuals who stop using blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop conventional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a prominent health publication shows that while overweight individuals often shed a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals purchasing such treatments must be cognizant of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a return to starting weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually experience a more gradual creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Experts propose the way of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the persistent character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Experiences
People who have come off the jabs describe a sudden return of cravings.
"It was like a switch flipping and you're instantly starving," said a patient.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Figures show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss hinges on combined lifestyle changes.
