Fresh analysis reveals that patients who come off blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who end traditional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while overweight individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users buying such treatments need to be informed of the potential of fast weight regain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about 18 months.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically have a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Experts suggest the way of the drugs accounts for the heightened rebound.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, given the high risk of relapse, the therapy is often long-term.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "underscore the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
People who have stopped the medication describe a sudden return of cravings.
"It was like something that goes on and I was suddenly starving," described an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if users have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Survey data suggest that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and lasting health benefits relies on integrated lifestyle support.
