Fresh analysis reveals that patients who come off popular GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover shed pounds much more quickly than those who end conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a prominent health publication points out that while overweight individuals can lose a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People purchasing these treatments should be cognizant of the potential of quick weight regain when the medication is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a reversion to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally have a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Experts propose the mode of action of the drugs explains the heightened regain.
The injections copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS advise the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "underscore the chronic nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the medication report a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and you become starving," said a patient.
This difficulty is compounded if patients have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Figures show that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest remaining high.
- Use is more common among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers caution that while these medications are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success hinges on ongoing lifestyle changes.
