New research suggests that patients who come off new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a major health publication shows that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People using such drugs need to be cognizant of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a reversion to original weight within about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists point out that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally experience a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Experts suggest the way of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "underscore the persistent nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
People who have come off the medication describe a powerful return of appetite.
"It was like a trigger flipping and you're instantly starving," described one woman.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not established lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Figures indicate that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss relies on combined behavioural support.
